Skip to main content

The secrets of the world’s most famous symphony - Hanako Sawada

1,736,480 Views

9,815 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

Eight ferocious notes open one of the most explosive pieces of music ever composed. Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony Number Five premiered in 1808, and quickly won acclaim. Its central motif and raw emotionality have continued to resound through the ages. So what exactly makes Beethoven’s Fifth so captivating? Hanako Sawada uncovers the story behind this musical masterpiece.

How does Beethoven make the ending of this piece sound triumphant compared to the beginning of the piece?

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Hanako Sawada
  • Director Yael Reisfeld
  • Narrator Jack Cutmore-Scott
  • Storyboard Artist Yael Reisfeld
  • Animator Yael Reisfeld
  • Compositor Yael Reisfeld
  • Art Director Yael Reisfeld
  • Composer Jarrett Farkas
  • Sound Designer Jarrett Farkas
  • Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Director Alex Rosenthal
  • Producer Bethany Cutmore-Scott
  • Editorial Producer Dan Kwartler
  • Production Coordinator Abdallah Ewis
  • Script Editor Iseult Gillespie
  • Fact-Checker Jennifer Nam

More from Behind the Curtain