the king's speech beethoven

Beethoven's music in 'The King's Speech' a magical match

• Updated: Jan. 17, 2011, 7:20 p.m.
• | Published: Jan. 17, 2011, 6:20 p.m.
• David Stabler | Special to The Oregonian/OregonLive

There's a moment in the film

that absolutely soars. It comes near the end when poor Bertie has been crowned as

after his brother abdicated to marry Wallis Simpson.

Superbly played by

, Bertie (his family nickname) dreaded public speaking because of a speech impediment. He was horrified when he had to ascend the throne in 1937 because he knew what the job entailed. Two years later, he gave a major speech that BBC Radio broadcast throughout the empire, announcing Britain's entry into World War II. The speech serves as the climax of the film. We've seen him humiliate himself on a number of previous occasions, unable to get the words out.

The film lets time drag as we see Bertie struggle with clicks and stutters to form the words. It's excruciating and I found myself tensing up each time.

But now he's the king and after working intensely with Lionel Logue, an Australian speech therapist, beautifully underplayed by Geoffrey Rush, Bertie is about to give the speech of his life. The stakes couldn't be higher. Britain needs a leader to take it to war.

The buildup begins as he and Logue walk Buckingham Palace's endless corridors toward the broadcast room, passing dozens of broadcasters who wish him well. At last, they enter the room with the microphone. They're alone. Logue throws open the window -- he believes fresh air helps -- as Bertie tries to compose himself.

The countdown begins -- four blinks of a red light followed by steady red. Bertie's fear is agonizing to watch.

And then this: As Firth struggles at first, we hear the ominous chugging of musical chords. Moments later, the calm, gentle Allegretto of Beethoven's Seventh Symphony spreads over the pulsing rhythm. The melody is smooth, unruffled, an aural metaphor for Bertie's aspirations.

With Logue silently prompting him through the difficult spots, the sweet, melancholic music unfolds, building in intensity, then subsiding, lasting exactly as long as the speech.

Nevermind the irony of hearing German music during a speech about going to war with Hitler. The scene brims with feeling between patient and therapist, who went on to became lifelong friends. It's a magnificent moment. If ever music and intention matched, this is it.

RECOMMENDED • oregonlive .com

‘People need to feel safe here’: Mayor Wheeler shares details of Old Town Chinatown action plan Sep. 15, 2024, 12:19 a.m.

What’s the best brunch spot in Portland? Vote in The Oregonian’s Readers’ Choice Awards Sep. 11, 2024, 10:58 a.m.

Moments later, at the movie's coda, we hear more Beethoven: the ethereal slow movement of the "Emperor" Piano Concerto. It too, is a perfect fit.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Beethoven’s 7th Symphony in Movies and TV

How many movies and tv shows feature beethoven’s 7th symphony.

Westworld (2018) X-Men: Apocalypse (2016) Mr. Robot (2015) The King’s Speech (2010) Knowing (2009) Love Exposure (2008) The Man from Earth (2007) The Fall (2006)

Irreversible (2002) Photographing Fairies (1997) Mr. Holland’s Opus (1995) Immortal Beloved (1994) Parade of the Planets (1984) Zardoz (1974) Lola (1961) The Black Cat (1934)

Answer: A lot!

And these are only the ones that use the  2nd movement  of the symphony, the Allegretto.

Other parts of the symphony have been used in Carl Sagan’s “Cosmos,” Wes Anderson’s “The Darjeeling Limited,” “Seinfeld,” “Boardwalk Empire,” and “The Charlie Brown Easter Special.”

Beethoven’s 7th Symphony, 2nd movement, Allegretto:

The king’s speech (2010).

Most famously, the Allegretto accompanied the climactic final speech scene in The King’s Speech .

In the film, Colin Firth plays Prince Albert, who must take the throne as King George VI. Afflicted with a speech impediment, he must work to overcome his stammer and deliver a crucial speech to England as it entered World War II.

The King’s Speech went on to win four Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Actor.

Mr. Holland’s Opus (1995)

In Mr. Holland’s Opus, the music teacher and composer Mr. Holland (played by Richard Dreyfuss ) discovers that his newborn son is deaf. The next day, he teaches his music appreciation class about Beethoven and his deafness. Beethoven’s Allegretto underscores the scene to haunting effect.

Richard Dreyfuss was nominated for Best Actor for his role as Mr. Holland. The film has gone on to be a powerful and inspiring piece about the impact that teachers (especially music teachers) have on their students.

Immortal Beloved (1994)

In a film about Beethoven himself, how could Immortal Beloved not feature the Allegretto to underscore a tragic scene. In the film, Beethoven adopts his nephew Karl and pushes him to be a great pianist. Karl turns out to be a mediocre musician, but Beethoven either doesn’t know or doesn’t care. The Allegretto plays as Karl tries to end his own life.

Karl ends up missing (he is both a bad pianist and a bad shot) and injures himself instead. Immortal Beloved, featuring Gary Oldman as Beethoven, is a fascinating and moving (if slightly inaccurate) exploration of Beethoven’s life and motivations.

X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)

In X-Men: Apocalypse, an ancient mutant (named Apocalypse) emerges from hibernation and seeks to bring about a new world order. Apocalypse invades Dr. X’s mind and uses his machine to launch every nuclear warhead on the planet, destroying all the weapons they could fight him with.

X-Men Apocalypse was the final film of the X-Men prequel trilogy, starring James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, and Jennifer Lawrence, and with Oscar Isaac as Apocalypse.

Beethoven’s 7th Symphony, 1st and 4th movements

The other movements of the symphony have also been used in films and TV, but to highlight excitement or energy rather than sadness. The first movement was used in Carl Sagan’s “Cosmos” and the “Charlie Brown Easter Special,” and the last movement was used in Wes Anderson’s “The Darjeeling Limited” and “Seinfeld.”

This clip from the Carlie Brown Easter Special features the main melody of the first movement of the symphony. It is performed on flutes and other woodwinds instead of the full orchestra as Beethoven wrote it. The flutes lend this version a lighter, Spring-ier sound.

Beethoven’s 7th Symphony is one of the composer’s most popular works, both because of its excellent music and because of how often it is used in films and TV shows.

The second movement alone has been used in over 16 major films and TV series since 1934.

The first and fourth movements of the symphony have also been used in many films and TV shows, including: Carl Sagan’s “Cosmos,” Wes Anderson’s “The Darjeeling Limited,” “Seinfeld,” “Boardwalk Empire,” and “The Charlie Brown Easter Special.”

Listen to a full performance of the symphony below, or join the Fort Collins Symphony on August 12th, 2022 for a live performance at Timberline Church in Fort Collins, Colorado. Tickets and more information are available on our Beethoven Festival concert page.

Beethoven’s 7th Symphony:

Performance by Carlos Kleiber and the Concertgebouw Orchestra of Amsterdam.

Join the FCS Newsletter to hear the latest from FCS! Get exclusive concert updates, insightful articles, and behind-the-scenes interviews delivered weekly. Plus, with live-streaming, the symphony's magic is just a click away, no matter where you are. Join our growing family of music lovers today!

Unsubscribe at any time.

"No Thanks" or "I'm already on it"

Top 50 by Year

Lists Explorer

100 Most Featured Movie Songs

100 Most Featured TV Songs

The King's Speech Soundtrack [ 2010 ]

List of songs.

The Marriage of Figaro Overture

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Add scene description

Clarinet Concerto 1st Movement

Requiem 2nd Movement

Johannes Brahms

Symphony No. 7 in A Major Op.92 Allegretto

Ludwig Van Beethoven

Piano Concerto No.5 'Emperor' 2nd Movement

The King's Speech

Alexandre Desplat

I Love You Truly

Lionel and Bertie

Shout for Happiness

Who's Been Polishing the Sun

Ambrose and His Orchestra

King George VI

The King is Dead

Memories of Childhood

My Kingdom, My Rules

Queen Elizabeth

The Rehearsal

The Royal Household

Fear and Suspiscion

The Threat of War

Trailer Songs

Oh no! No trailer songs have been added yet. Add them by logging in.

Films with Similar Music

Dinner for Schmucks

2010 • 11 songs

Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation

2015 • 6 songs

4 years ago

What was the final piece of music played during the credits of The Kings Speech?

7 years ago

I could've sworn that the music played as bertie walked to the Parliament, was from Beethoven's second piano concerto.

Music Supervisors

External Links

Contributors

WhatSong is the worlds largest collection of movie & tv show soundtracks and playlists.

© 2024 WhatSong Soundtracks. All rights reserved

Quick links

Why Is Beethoven's Allegretto So Completely Captivating?

The second movement of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7—the Allegretto—has captivated listeners since the symphony’s 1813 premiere, when it was so popular that the orchestra used it as an encore. WRTI’s Susan Lewis has more on why this particular movement continues to engage us.

The famous Beethoven “Allegretto” from his Symphony No. 7:

Radio script: 

MUSIC: Beethoven, Symphony No. 7, Movement 2.

Susan Lewis: The Allegretto has been performed on its own, used in The King’s Speech and other films, and inspired composers from Schubert to jazz pianist Jacques Loussier. 

MUSIC: Jazz pianist Jacques Loussier, Variation 1 on Beethoven's Allegretto.

SL: What is it about the second movement of Beethoven’s 7th symphony that draws us in?

Stéphane Denève: It starts by the way within a minor chord, and then suddenly what you hear is not the theme, but the counter theme... you hear [sings].

MUSIC: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, Movement 2.

SD: Then, finally, when the theme arrives, it’s fabulous because it has this element of nostalgia. You have the feeling you have direct access to the heart of Beethoven.

SL : There’s also that rhythm. 

SD: There is something subliminal that makes this rhythm we hear all the time... [sings] symbolize the full life.

SL: What is it about the Allegretto?  Melody, motion, and maybe a little mystery—all part of the genius of Beethoven.

LVBEETHOVEN.COM

Symphony no. 7, ludwig van beethoven’s symphony no. 7: a deep dive, introduction.

In the vast and venerable realm of classical music, few names shine as brightly as Ludwig van Beethoven. His contributions to the world of music are timeless, his compositions serving as foundational pillars for both contemporary and future musicians. Among his nine symphonies, Symphony No. 7 in A major, Op. 92, holds a special place, not only for its musical brilliance but also for the unique circumstances surrounding its creation.

Symphony No. 7 exemplifies Beethoven’s masterful talent in weaving together melodies, rhythms, and harmonies into a cohesive yet ever-evolving narrative. Its movements take listeners on a journey from the triumphant to the somber, the exhilarating to the introspective, capturing a myriad of human emotions along the way. This symphony, often dubbed as the “Apotheosis of Dance” by later critics, represents Beethoven’s genius in its purest form.

Historical Context

To truly appreciate Symphony No. 7, it is crucial to understand the historical tapestry against which it was composed. The early 19th century was a time of profound political and societal upheaval across Europe. Napoleon Bonaparte’s conquests had reshaped the political landscape, and the ideals of the French Revolution had begun to influence societal structures and individual thinking. Beethoven, who initially admired Napoleon for his democratic and anti-monarchical sentiments, grew disillusioned when Napoleon declared himself Emperor in 1804. This sense of betrayal was palpable in his compositions.

Beyond the broader European context, Beethoven’s personal life during this period was marked by significant challenges. The most heartrending among them was his worsening deafness. By the time he began working on Symphony No. 7 in 1811, his hearing had deteriorated considerably. Yet, rather than succumbing to despair, Beethoven channeled his emotions, both the joys and sorrows, into his music. The Symphony No. 7 can be seen as a testament to his indomitable spirit, a beacon of resilience and creativity amidst personal adversity.

The symphony was composed during Beethoven’s stay in the Bohemian spa town of Teplice, a respite sought in hopes of improving his health. Away from the urban hustle of Vienna, the serene environment of Teplice provided the maestro with the peace and tranquility conducive to musical creation. And so, Symphony No. 7 was birthed, blending the echoes of the world’s tumult with the whispers of Beethoven’s soul.

Overall Structure of Symphony No. 7

Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 in A major, Op. 92, is methodically organized into four distinct movements, each offering a unique auditory experience. The decision to employ A major as the symphony’s primary key lends it a radiant and uplifting quality, contrasting starkly with some of Beethoven’s other works. The symphony beautifully balances the joyous and serene, the melancholic and introspective.

• Poco sostenuto – Vivace : Serving as the symphony’s introduction, this movement establishes the primary themes and sets the overall tone.
• Allegretto : Perhaps the most recognizable movement, its poignant and rhythmic qualities have made it a favorite among both enthusiasts and newcomers to classical music.
• Presto – Assai meno presto : This movement, with its swift tempo, introduces a playful yet profound dynamic, further exemplifying Beethoven’s mastery over musical narrative.
• Allegro con brio : The finale, characterized by its jubilant and triumphant spirit, provides a fitting conclusion to this musical journey.

Movement-by-Movement Analysis

First movement: poco sostenuto – vivace.

The symphony commences with a lengthy and profound introduction in the Poco sostenuto section. This segment gradually unfurls, introducing listeners to the symphony’s rhythmic motifs and thematic material. As it progresses to the Vivace portion, Beethoven employs an infectious rhythm that seems to dance and leap, captivating listeners with its energy and verve. This movement, while setting the symphony’s tone, serves as a testament to Beethoven’s ability to combine rhythmic intricacy with melodic beauty.

Second Movement: Allegretto

Arguably one of Beethoven’s most celebrated movements across all his symphonies, the Allegretto of Symphony No. 7 stands out for its hauntingly beautiful theme. This movement, with its recurring rhythmic pattern, evokes a sense of melancholy intertwined with hope. The theme’s simplicity, combined with its methodical variations, gives it a dance-like quality, albeit one steeped in introspection and reflection. Over the years, this movement has found its way into various facets of popular culture, testament to its enduring appeal.

Third Movement: Presto – Assai meno presto

In stark contrast to the preceding Allegretto, the third movement bursts forth with an exhilarating Presto, teeming with liveliness. This segment is structured as a scherzo and trio, with the scherzo’s theme characterized by rapid strings and jubilant energy. The trio section, Assai meno presto, offers a brief respite, slowing the tempo and introducing a more lyrical theme. However, the scherzo soon returns, restoring the movement’s spirited vigor.

Fourth Movement: Allegro con brio

The symphony’s finale is a musical tour de force, encapsulating the essence of Beethoven’s genius. Allegro con brio, translating to ‘lively with spirit’, lives up to its name, presenting listeners with a whirlwind of thematic variations and rhythmic dynamism. This movement serves as a triumphant conclusion, showcasing Beethoven’s unparalleled ability to craft musical narratives that resonate deeply with human emotion and experience.

Beethoven’s Innovations in Symphony No. 7

While Ludwig van Beethoven’s body of work is replete with groundbreaking innovations, Symphony No. 7 stands as a testament to several of his pioneering musical techniques. This piece is not just a product of his genius, but also an embodiment of his vision to elevate and evolve the symphonic form.

Rhythmic Motifs: One of the standout features of Symphony No. 7 is Beethoven’s emphasis on rhythm. Unlike many compositions of his era that primarily focused on melody, this symphony sees rhythm playing a central role. The repeated rhythmic patterns, especially in the first and last movements, provide an infectious energy that propels the entire piece forward.

Dynamics and Contrasts: Beethoven’s use of dynamics in this symphony is both nuanced and dramatic. He artfully maneuvers between pianissimo and fortissimo, creating a soundscape of tension, anticipation, and release. These contrasts are not just present between movements, but often within individual sections, offering listeners an intense emotional experience.

Extension of Traditional Symphonic Form: Symphony No. 7 showcases Beethoven’s penchant for pushing boundaries. While he retains the classical four-movement structure, he plays with traditional forms, introducing elongated developments and unexpected modulations. This results in a piece that is familiar yet strikingly original, setting the stage for the future evolution of the symphonic genre.

Reception and Legacy

Premiered in 1813 at a charity concert for wounded soldiers, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 was met with immediate acclaim. The vivacious rhythms and the evocative second movement struck a chord with the audience, making it a resounding success. Such was its popularity that the Allegretto was demanded as an encore at its premiere.

Over time, the symphony has only grown in stature. Renowned composer Richard Wagner famously described it as the “Apotheosis of Dance”, a tribute to its rhythmic core. This sentiment was echoed by many, with the symphony being praised for its vitality, joy, and emotional depth.

The legacy of Symphony No. 7 extends beyond the concert hall. Its influence on subsequent composers is undeniable, with many drawing inspiration from its structure, themes, and innovations. Beyond classical music, the symphony has permeated popular culture. Notably, the Allegretto found its way into films like “The King’s Speech”, introducing Beethoven’s genius to new generations.

Today, Symphony No. 7 remains a staple in orchestral repertoires worldwide, a timeless piece that continues to inspire, move, and captivate audiences, affirming Beethoven’s place as one of music’s greatest luminaries.

Symphony No. 7 in Popular Culture

Given its stirring melodies and profound emotional resonance, it’s no surprise that Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 has permeated various facets of popular culture. Here are some notable instances where Symphony No. 7 has left an indelible mark:

• Film: One of the most famous uses of Symphony No. 7 in cinema is in the critically acclaimed film “The King’s Speech”. The powerful Allegretto plays a pivotal role in a key scene, elevating the movie’s emotional impact.
• Television: Elements of the symphony have been featured in several television programs, often underscoring dramatic or pivotal moments, thereby showcasing the universality of Beethoven’s musical language.
• Advertisements: The evocative themes of Symphony No. 7 have found their way into advertising campaigns, testifying to their enduring appeal across diverse audiences.
• Video Games: As video games have emerged as a dominant cultural medium, developers have often turned to classical music to enhance their narratives. Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, with its sweeping melodies and intricate rhythms, has featured in this realm as well.

Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 in A major, Op. 92, is more than just a musical composition; it’s a journey that encapsulates the range of human emotion, from the depths of introspection to the pinnacles of joy. Crafted in the face of personal adversity and set against a backdrop of societal change, this symphony stands as a testament to Beethoven’s enduring genius and his indomitable spirit. Its influence on subsequent generations of musicians and its permeation into popular culture affirm its timeless appeal and relevance. As listeners, we are fortunate to have this masterpiece as a testament to the unparalleled power of music.

References & Recommended Listening

• Lockwood, Lewis. Beethoven: The Music and the Life . W.W. Norton & Company, 2005.
• Kinderman, William. Beethoven . Oxford University Press, 2009.
• Solomon, Maynard. Beethoven . Schirmer Books, 1998.
• Beethoven: Symphony No. 7 – Berlin Philharmonic, conducted by Herbert von Karajan.
• Beethoven: Symphony No. 7 – Vienna Philharmonic, conducted by Leonard Bernstein.
• Beethoven: Symphony No. 7 – London Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Sir Simon Rattle.
• Analysis and Scholarship
• Beethoven and Culture
• Beethoven Books
• Beethoven Collections
• Beethoven Music
• Beethoven's Inspirations and Influence
• Beethoven's Works
• Community and Education
• Multimedia Gallery
• Performance and Recordings
• Uncategorized
• Beethoven: The Maestro of Musical Innovation
• Beethoven: A Symphony of Genius
• The Composer Who Defined an Era
• Beethoven’s Early Years: Childhood, Training, and Musical Legacy

Classic FM Breakfast with Tim Lihoreau 7am - 9am

Now Playing

Cavatina Stanley Myers Download 'Cavatina' on iTunes

The King's Speech (2010)

This image appears in the gallery: Alexandre Desplat: Ten Best Movie Soundtracks

6. The King's Speech (2010)

The 'speech' itself may be set to Beethoven, but Desplat’s Bafta-winning themes are surely his warmest and prettiest. They're beautifully played on the original soundtrack by the composer’s regular pianist, Dave Arch, with the gentlest of string and woodwind accompaniments. Brief but very classy.

See the full gallery : Alexandre Desplat: Ten Best Movie Soundtracks

Desplat News

See more Desplat News

Alexandre Desplat’s The Shape of Water wins Bafta for Best Original Music

Alexandre desplat wins best original score at golden globes 2018, alexandre desplat wins bafta for grand budapest hotel score, desplat music.

See more Desplat Music

Alexandre Desplat: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

The king's speech - alexandre desplat, alexandre desplat: the queen, desplat guides.

See more Desplat Guides

Michael Giacchino’s music for Rogue One has some fantastic nods to John Williams

Alexandre desplat - godzilla ost: an album guide, alexandre desplat - philomena ost: an album guide.

THE KING'S SPEECH Is A Masterfully Crafted, Moving Tale of Triumph

Frequently sleep-deprived film addict and video game obsessive who spends more time than is healthy in darkened London screening rooms. Follow his twitter on @ShaunMunroFilm or e-mail him at shaneo632 [at] gmail.com.

Arthur's Days

Sunday, january 23, 2011, the music in the king's speech (plus the real speech at the end).

No comments:

Post a comment.

Schepetkov Beethoven's 7th (Epic Version) [From "The King's Speech"] Single

Choose music service