9th

Dear Ludwig,

Just a small note to thank you for the 9th, it added a little dignity to what has been a rather gray, cold, wet and obtuse day.  

I can't believe you never got to hear it with your own ears. It's the most magical, triumphant work of music that has ever made it's way into my  auditory ossicles . it makes me want to charge to battle and win the war against all evil. When I listen to its swell from confusion and beautiful disorganization to sudden holy culmination I want to just scream Hallelujah!

Why does this ancient mastery of wind and bow, horn and voice bring such holy exultation of life and God to me. While being the most universally known classical work it connects so personally with the little 9 year old kid inside me that fights dragons with coat hangers and squirt guns. I feel 25.2 years younger when i hear it.

 ____

My favorite line from Immortal Beloved:

The manner in which you thump out the notes without the slightest thought as to their meaning is unforgivable. And your lack of passion is unforgivable.