Dmitri Shostakovich

(1906-1975)
(Duh-meet-ri Shaw-stow-coe-vitch)

Dmitri Shostakovich became well-known internationally after his Symphony No. 1 in 1926. He had a long career with many successful works; however, he had to navigate the political intricacies of being a creative artist under the Soviet Union’s repressive regime. In 1934, his opera, Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk was condemned by the government after an initial favorable response. Shostakovich, along with several other prominent Soviet composers, including Sergei Prokofiev, was denounced in 1948. For several years, Shostakovich’s music was not performed and he lived in constant fear of arrest and torture. His rehabilitation was considered complete in 1956 and his music was once again performed regularly. Shostakovich wrote fifteen symphonies as well as other concert works.

Important Works

  • Symphony No. 1

  • Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk

  • The Nose

  • Symphony No. 5

  • Symphony No. 7, Leningrad

  • Violin Concerto No. 1

  • String Quartet No. 8

  • Symphony No. 10

  • Festive Overture

  • Symphony No. 13, Babi Yar

Further Listening

Festive Overture, performed by the Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra

Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk, Shostakovich playing the Act III En’trace

Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk Concert Suite, performed by the Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra

Symphony No 7, Leningrad, performed by the Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra

Symphony No. 13, Babi Yar, performed by the Michigan State University Orchestra and Choirs