During the pandemic, the North Carolina Symphony invited citizens across North Carolina to join in a performance of Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” melody from his Symphony No. 9—and the response exceeded our expectations!

Through the One State One Score project, sponsored by UNC Health, more than 1,400 people shared their creativity—playing instruments, singing, dancing, and responding to the music with art. We received submissions from North Carolinians from the mountains to the coast (and one submission from Germany!).

More than 30 types of instruments were performed, ranging from the traditional, to hammered dulcimers, to cowbells, to nose-whistle! Submissions came from counties from the mountains to the coast, from North Carolinians of all ages, from 400+ school classrooms, and from Symphony musicians and staff.

We are so proud to share the work of art that our great state of North Carolina made together, even at a time when we were separate. This video represents just a fraction of the talent—and joy!—that we witnessed through this project. To all those who contributed, thank you! Your talent and creativity are inspiring.

SPONSORED BY

All art forms are welcome!

We want to see and hear what you love, from traditional orchestra instruments like violins and flutes to synthesizers, electric guitars, and banjos.

If you are a visual artist or dancer, we invite you to submit your original artwork or choreography to go along with this music! Here’s a recording of the melody for inspiration.

We will feature as many video submissions as we can in our final compilation.

If you have any questions, please email education@ncsymphony.org

Through the One State One Score project, sponsored by UNC Health, the public was invited to “join the Symphony” virtually by performing or responding to Beethoven’s famous “Ode to Joy” melody from the Symphony No. 9.

The resulting compilation video, released today, showcases the exceptional talents of North Carolina citizens.

The Symphony provided access to Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy,” arranged for all different instruments and vocal parts. Participants selected their instrument and skill level to find sheet music perfectly customized for them, then recorded a video of their performance and uploaded it via the Symphony’s website. The Symphony also encouraged the submissions of visual artwork and dance inspired by the music.

More than 1,400 people shared their creativity through One State One Score—playing instruments, singing, dancing, painting, and drawing. NCS received submissions from North Carolinians from the mountains to the coast—and even one submission from Germany. Citizens of all ages participated, including representation from 400+ schools. More than 30 types of instruments were performed, ranging from the traditional, to hammered dulcimers, to cowbells, to nose-whistle. With the enthusiastic and overwhelming response, NCS compiled as many submissions as possible into the final video.