Arts

Beethoven Is Back! In Nyack on Feb 5

Published

February 1, 2014

"Following The Ninth" Beethoven film, 201401 by Greg Mitchell

Ludwig van Beethoven is coming back to Nyack by popular demand! Last month’s screening of the new documentary “Following the Ninth” drew a sellout crowd to the Nyack Center. The dozens who were turned away as well as anyone else who didn’t get to see the film will have another opportunity at 730p on Wed Feb 5 at the Nyack Library.

Co-producer Greg Mitchell will speak and take questions and pianist Yashar Yaslowitz, director of the Carnegie Concerts series at the library, will play some Beethoven.

Director Kerry Candaele traces the amazing political and cultural influence of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony and “Ode to Joy” from Chile to China including a special appearance by folk-punk star Billy Bragg. The film has drawn rave reviews and garnered coverage on both Bill Moyers’ PBS program and All Things Considered.

A special feature at the January 8 screening, which drew a lengthy standing ovation, was a “flash mob” performance of the “Ode to Joy,” featuring about 20 local musicians plus singers from the Nyack High School choir. These flash mobs are a global phenomenon and perfectly reflect the inspiring spirit of the film. Rivertown is finishing an edited video of the flash mob, shot by several cameras, but for now you can watch the raw cut from the balcony.

The final two of four special events in the Carnegie series will be held at Nyack Library in February. Yaslowitz will play Beethoven sonatas and Greg Mitchell will present film clips from documentaries and Hollywood films related to Beethoven’s life and music. The dates are Feb 8 and 22. Get your tickets now: the first two programs in January sold out.

This screening is co-sponsored by Carnegie Concerts and Rivertown Film.

Tickets for both “Following the Ninth” and these two events can be ordered at CarnegieRoom.tix.com. Visit RivertownFilm.org where you can also read more and view the trailer for this film.