Japan hosts one of the world’s most incredible musical events every December. Since 1983, a massive choir of 10,000 singers has gathered in Osaka to perform the final movement of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. Accompanied by a full orchestra, this breathtaking performance highlights the power of music and the strength of unity.
The event, called Daiku (which means “Number Nine” in Japanese), is led by conductor Yutaka Sado. Sado, who studied with legendary musicians Seiji Ozawa and Leonard Bernstein, guides the enormous choir and orchestra with skill and passion. Audiences worldwide have praised the performance. One Canadian listener said, “A German masterpiece sung by a Japanese choir gave me chills.” Another person admired the choir’s talent and accuracy saying that “Their pronunciation and skill were amazing.”
Watch the 10,000-voice Choir Perform Beethoven’s Symphony No.9
What makes this event even more special is that most of the choir members are ordinary people. These amateur singers audition to join the performance—standing alongside professional soloists and a chamber choir. Their dedication and love for music make the event truly unique.
In Japan, Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony is a holiday tradition. Its famous “Ode to Joy” finale is about peace, hope, and happiness—fitting themes for the end of the year. This tradition began during World War I when German prisoners of war introduced the piece to Japan. It has since become a symbol of celebration and togetherness.
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Conducting such a huge choir is not easy. Sado has said that his biggest challenge is making every singer feel important. “It’s amazing to have 10,000 singers, but I need them to feel like they’re not just one of many—that their part really matters,” he explained.
Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, this tradition continued. In 2020, the event went virtual for the first time to mark Beethoven’s 250th birthday. More than 11,000 singers from around the world sent in videos to create a global virtual choir that performed with a live orchestra. The next year, the event featured both live and virtual performances, showing the creativity and resilience of the organizers.
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Toshiaki Kamei, who leads the All-Japan Association of Daiku Choral Societies, says the event has a deeper meaning. “In a world with so many conflicts singing Daiku together helps us accept differences and promote peace.”
This 10,000-person choir is more than just a concert. It’s a reminder of how music can bring people together, no matter where they’re from.