The Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125, is the final complete symphony of Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827).
The Symphony No. 9, with accompanying chorus, is traditionally performed throughout Japan during its New Year's celebrations. In December 2009, for example, there were 55 performances of the symphony by various major orchestras and choirs in Japan.[39]
The Ninth was introduced to Japan by German soldiers held at Bandō Prisoner of War camp during World War I. Japanese orchestras, notably the NHK Symphony Orchestra, began performing the symphony in 1925. During World War II, the Imperial government
promoted performances of the symphony, including on New Year's Eve, to
encourage allegiance to Japanese nationalism. The symphony was
considered appropriate in this regard because Germany was an ally of
Japan. After the war, orchestras and choruses, undergoing economic hard
times during the reconstruction of Japan, promoted performances of the
piece around New Year because of the popularity of the music with the
public. In the 1960s, performances of the symphony for the New Year
became more widespread and included participation by local choirs and
orchestras, establishing the tradition which continues to this day – and
which includes, since 2003, a concert of all nine symphonies.[39][40]
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