The 2016 Centennial year reaches its finale with Beethoven's Ninth Symphony. No other work creates such breathless excitement, whether you're hearing it for the first time or returning to it as a familiar favorite. Remarkably, Beethoven was completely deaf when he conducted its 1824 premiere performance. He had to be turned around to face the audience after the final notes had died away to recognize the waving handkerchiefs and hats in hands, a tribute to a man who could not hear the applause.

Sunday performance: What better way to cap off the BSO's 100th year with the opportunity to sing in the finale performance of Beethoven's Ninth! Maestra Alsop will rehearse the audience in sections of the "Ode to Joy" before the BSO gives a complete performance of the work, with chorus and audience joining in the final celebratory song of friendship and peace.

Sunday, November 20, 1:30 pm: Pre-Concert Lecture with Dr. Richard Kogan, "Beethoven's Deafness: Phychological Crisis and Artistic Triumph"