As we celebrate our 2nd Annual Event, please join us on Friday, May 2nd, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. for the opening of Ode to Joy—an eclectic exhibition of servant leadership through music for community building, peace, and healing. This exhibition, held at the International Servant Leaders Museum, is inspired by the legacy of musical servant leaders such as Marian Anderson, Woody Guthrie, Rouhollah Khaleghi, Golnoush Khaleghi, and Pete Seeger. It also pays tribute to Beethoven’s Ode to Joy and will feature several collectible artifacts related to Beethoven, one of the most celebrated composers of all time.
Marian Anderson, Voice of Century Photo Courtesy, Carl Van Vechten
Golnoush Khaleghi, the first Iranian Woman Conductor
Beethoven’s Ode to Joy is widely known as the choral finale of his Symphony No. 9 and is recognized as a universal anthem of unity, peace, and equality among all people. It is considered the pinnacle of Beethoven’s musical genius. For nearly two decades, Beethoven contemplated composing a symphony based on Friedrich Schiller’s poem Ode to Joy. As reflected in his letters, he was deeply moved by verses such as:
“Be embraced, millions!
This kiss for the whole world!”
These words embody an inclusive vision for humanity.
Beethoven completed the symphony in 1824, three years before his death in 1827. It was his final masterpiece —a symphony for the ages, devoted to humanity’s yearning for unity, peace, freedom, and hope. For years now, Ode to Joy has served as the European Union’s anthem.
We look forward to welcoming you to this special exhibition, which will be followed at 6:35 p.m. by Ey Iran—the people’s anthem for Iran—a concert honoring two of Iran’s musical servant leaders, Golnoush and Rouhollah Khaleghi. Our annual celebration continues on May 3rd with a tribute to the legacy of Pete Seeger and all those who, across generations, have brought us together in the pursuit of a beloved community through music.
