Ludwig van Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 is considered by many to be one of the most epic pieces of music in history. Its form and dramatic scope are magnificent, and it fully lives up to the title of being considered one of the cornerstones of Western musical history. After the first three movements, shaped by intense internal conflict, the fourth movement brings hope and faith in humanity with the composer's interpretation of Friedrich Schiller's Ode to Joy. The symphony can be seen as a magnificent exhortation to humanity to seek compassion and humanity in joy. The concert's soloists are among the Iceland's best-known singers, and tenor singer Stuart Skelton. The Iceland Symphony Orchestra, the Philharmonic Choir and the Langholtskirkja Choir bring us this magnificent work, conducted by Edward Gardner.
The concert is held in collaboration with Arctic Circle, Höfði Reykjavík City Peace Centre and the University of Iceland.

Conductor
Edward Gardner

Soprano
Harpa Ósk Björnsdóttir

Mezzo-soprano
Hanna Dóra Sturludóttir

Tenor
Stuart Skelton

Bass-baritone
Andri Björn Róbertsson

Choirs
Reykjavik Philharmonic Choir
The Langholtskirkja Choir

Program
Sergei Prokofiev Violin Concerto No. 1
Ludwig van Beethoven Symphony No. 9