My favorite music album of all time is the legendary 1963 recording of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony by the Berlin Philharmonic directed by Herbert von Karajan. This masterful piece holds special significance for me, particularly the famous fourth movement with vocals from the chorus and soloists. The lyrics they sing come from Friedrich Schiller’s ode “An die Freude” (“Ode to Joy”), a poem emphasizing ideals of human brotherhood and the hope for freedom and unity. As the chorus passionately sings aloud Schiller’s uplifting words set to Beethoven’s music, I feel deeply moved by the powerful message affirming our shared humanity. The orchestral passages throughout also stir my emotions, from the solemn opening chords to the triumphant swell during the “Ode to Joy” finale. When I listen to von Karajan lead the Berlin Philharmonic on this album, I am transported by the sheer majesty and artistry of the performance. When I want to be inspired and uplifted by phenomenal classical music, I turn to this album, my unequivocal favorite.