In 2020 the world will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of composer Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827). Beethoven was born in Bonn, Germany – which today is home to the headquarters for the United Nations’ Climate Change Secretariat. 

Beethoven loved nature. For him it was a place of relaxation, solitude and inspiration. His sixth symphony, the ‘Pastoral’, musically depicts the harmonious unity between humankind and nature. Launched in 2017 at the UN World Climate Conference in Bonn, the Beethoven Pastoral Project aims to draw attention to the theme of ‘humankind and nature’, and to respond to today’s urgent questions of environmental protection and sustainability.

In 2020, artists from Yarra and around the world are invited to develop a project in response to the themes of Beethoven’s ‘Pastoral’ and share it with a global network of like-minded artists, collectives, individuals and organisations. 

Performances and projects are happening between Earth Day (22 April) and United Nations World Environment Day (5 June), and collectively will shape a powerful statement for environmental protection and sustainable development. 

Find out more about the Beethoven Pastoral Project.