Richard Strauss - Also sprach Zarathustra (Thus Spoke Zarathustra)
Also sprach Zarathustra a tone poem by German composer Richard Strauss, composed in 1896 and inspired
by Friedrich Nietzsche's 1883–1885 philosophical work of the same name, exploring themes of human evolution,
the rise and fall of religions, and the concept of the Übermensch (Superman). The tone poem doesn't directly quote
Nietzsche's words but musically depicts the philosophical ideas and struggles explored in the novel.
Strauss's work traces the progression of humankind from its origins through various stages of development, including religious
and scientific phases, ultimately culminating in Nietzsche's concept of the Übermensch, a being who transcends traditional values
and creates their own meaning and purpose in a world without God.
The music portrays the struggles of human beings to find meaning in a seemingly meaningless world, grappling with suffering, joy,
and the limitations of human existence. The tone poem also explores the relationship between nature and humanity, with the music
suggesting an eternal struggle and a constant interplay between the two.
The initial fanfare became well known after its use in Stanley Kubrick's 1968 film 2001: A Space Odyssey.
Beethoven - Symphony No. 9, 4th movement ("Ode to Joy")
Beethoven's Symphony No. 9, particularly its final movement, is rich in philosophical meaning and is often interpreted
as a celebration of universal brotherhood and joy. The text of the fourth movement, set to Friedrich Schiller's "Ode to Joy,"
expresses themes of unity and the brotherhood of all humanity, transcending boundaries and conflicts.
The symphony's message of hope and unity has resonated widely, symbolizing these ideals across various
contexts and cultures.
The fusion of vocal and instrumental music underscores the symphony's capacity to convey complex philosophical ideas
through music. Schiller's poem reflect a utopian vision of unity and harmony among all people, a theme that
resonates with the symphony's broader philosophical message of universal brotherhood and joy.
Richard Wagner - Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg (The Master-Singers of Nuremberg)
Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg by Richard Wagner has a significant philosophical meaning, particularly influenced by the philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer. Wagner first read Schopenhauer's ideas about the role of music in 1854, which led him to re-evaluate his earlier views on operatic construction and incorporate elements like arias, choruses, and duets into the opera. The character of Hans Sachs, a cobbler and master singer, embodies Schopenhauerian philosophy, representing a noble character who has knowledge of the vanity of all achievements and the suffering of life, leading to a calm renunciation of worldly desires. Sachs's character is deeply Schopenhauerian, reflecting the philosopher's description of a noble man who carries a trace of silent sadness due to his understanding of life's futility.