Beethoven's last great work, his Symphony No. 9 in D minor, premiered in Vienna in 1824. Also known as the Ode to Joy Symphony, it was received with numerous standing ovations, with some members of the audience enthusiastically waving hats and handkerchiefs to show their appreciation for the composer who could no longer hear the applause. The words in the choral finale were taken from a poem by Friedrich Schiller, and the music from this movement has been adopted as the official European Anthem.
Be embraced, millions!
This kiss for the whole world!
Brothers, above the starry canopy
Must a loving Father dwell.
Do you bow down, millions?
Do you sense the Creator, world?
Seek Him beyond the starry canopy!
Beyond the stars must He dwell.