If you have not yet discovered the Classics Explained channel on YouTube, it is an excellent way to explore classical music. Their entertaining animated videos are perfect primers for many of the great masterpieces, including Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, which is our Video of the Day. As they say, ‘It is the final work of a certified genius, full of innovation and beauty, with an influence on music that is still felt to this day. And its message of brotherhood and humanity is no less relevant. But it’s not all sunshine and roses, the story of Beethoven’s Ninth is one of deep contradictions and personal struggle.’

If you would like to find out more about Classics Explained, do read Ben Levy's blog for Opera Now, in which he explains the creative and educational purpose of the channel. 

Classics Explained is on YouTube, Spotify, Facebook and Instagram. classicsexplained.com