a moment of history

so today I decided that if they ever invent a time machine (how long have people been hoping this will happen?) that I would want to go back to May 7, 1824 to see and hear the premiere of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony in Vienna.

I bet you've all heard the story about the time Beethoven had to be told to turn around to accept his applause, well this was that time. but that's not why I want to go.

I was listening to this today while I was mowing (peculiar, perhaps) and it just reaffirmed my love for Beethoven's music. he just has a way of conveying emotion that no one else possesses, and it makes me shiver to think that he could compose this stuff, let alone when he was nearly one hundred percent deaf. but still, (i guess this is kinda the same point as the last one) that's not why I want to go.

I was reading about this premiere today, and it just seems like the most amazing time. first off, this was a time when composers still reigned and their music was highly anticipated and appreciated. the premiere was packed. this ended up being Beethoven's final symphony. it's over an hour of music. and this night, Beethoven received the respect and love that he'd been without for so many years of his life. i mean, he received five standin ovations. it was truly his night to shine.

and I wish I could have been there when he experienced that.

so, if they ever invent a time machine.
that's where I'll go.