CHORAL FANTASY | Ludwig van Beethoven | Concert in Bonn

The Fantasy (Fantasia) for piano, vocal soloists, chorus, and orchestra, Op. 80, usually called the Choral Fantasy, was composed in 1808 by Ludwig van Beethoven.

Beethoven intended the Fantasy to serve as the concluding work for the benefit concert he put on for himself on 22 December 1808; the performers consisted of vocal soloists, chorus, an orchestra, and Beethoven himself as piano soloist. The Fantasy was designed to include all the participants in the program and thus unites all of these musical forces.

The work is noted as a kind of forerunner to the later Ninth Symphony.

Concert:

Initiated and produced by Horst Burbulla.
Conducted by Chris Petrie.
Piano played by Tom Pauls.

[christopherd]

This isn't the most technically proficient performance of the Choral Fantasy but I've not seen a performance with more soul and emotion than this one.

[samostroff]

Such a wonderful community feeling it must have been to be in the audience surrounded by those musicians!!!❤

[isadoreladuca]

I wish I lived in a country which appreciates music like this.

[davekwan]

Having the choir as part of the audience is a great idea!

[keithwyman]

I'm fascinated by how well behaved the little boy being held by his father is!

[petecpko]

I've heard many different performances by famous orchestras, but this performances touched my heart the deepest. Each and every performer is outstanding including the camera man and sound recording technician. I enjoyed every minute of it.

[schalkloots]

It is good to see young people engaging in the highest form of art ...the art of Beethoven. There's hope for the future.

[colinnewton]

I consider this as Beethoven's greatest composition, not too long and a concerto for every section of the orchestra, choir and piano. Beautifully played and sung one of the very best of performances. Thank all who took part in this production, camera man and recordist included.

[photou]

What an absolute delight! You kept us all guessing - where's the choir? Behind you, in front of you, beside you...of course. Loved the reaction of the lady in the white blouse standing at the front. And choir members holding a glass of wine. LvB would have loved it.

[MrGaryCampanella]

I have watched this particular performance many times. It makes me want to cry for the sheer beauty of the piece but also for the musicians and singers who bring such joy and talent to a world that is seeming to tear itself apart. This performance represents what we are capable of. Thank you.

[SoB_]

Great performance. I find it amazing that such a small orchestra in such a small room can produce such a complete, powerful sound. I have no words...

[kalterkinderklaubonn]

Tears, tears running down my face. Thanks for all the beauty! Truely unbelievable! Speachless!

[tonkaGuy]

What a magnificent surprise! I've listened to and watched performances of this 100s of times over the last 50 years or so, but never been so moved. I can only like once, but a thousand thanks!!

[alfredwiener]

Wunderbare, zu Herzen gehende Aufführung ganz im Geiste des Werkes.

[guillermobernasconi]

I just finished listening to Daniel Barenboim conducting the Berlin Philharmonic, same choral, and wondering how did I missed this ensemble.. I got transported 😢😢..

[jean-baptisteoh]

Beethoven est un grand compositeur de musique, et ces grands interprètes crient avec la foule pour la liberté et la jouissance des droits de l'homme. Je suis vraiment touché.

[armandomartinez]

Miles de veces lo he escuchado, está versión fuera de serie.maravilloso elevado a la enésima potencia.gracias

[jflfremydhorreur]

Splendid Beethoven well emphasized by young, enthusiastic people. Thanks.

[katerynaovcharenko]

WOW!!! Such an amazing performance! The joy is overwhelming! THANK YOU!

[freeidiot]

That's some wonderful singing in the finale, literally bought tears to my eyes.