Description

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)

European anthem

Official version of the Bayerischer Blasmusikverband e.V.

Arr.: Joseph Kanz

The European Anthem, adopted by the Consultative Assembly of the Council of Europe in July 1971 and by the Committee of Ministers in January 1972, is the musical introduction to the “Ode to Joy”, the splendid conclusion to Ludwig van Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, presented in a condensed form. The orchestral writing adheres exactly to Beethoven’s score. E flat major was chosen as the key.
The edition was significantly supported by the Bavarian Minister of State for Science, Research and the Arts, Hans Zehetmair.