This 28-CD set commemorates the 50th anniversary of the death of Dimitri Shostakovich, presenting his symphonies, chamber symphonies, concertos, chamber music, string quartets, jazz ballet and film music, 24 Preludes & Fugues.

Dimitri Shostakovich (1906-1975) is without doubt one of the most famous and influential composers of 20th century Russia. He lived in a time of Soviet repression and, though outwardly a loyal communist, he resented the restrictions imposed by the regime on his creativity. This led to a fascinating duality between conformism and the expression of his most innermost feelings, fears and anger.

Shostakovich’s 15 symphonies chart a remarkable artistic journey. The Fifth Symphony, often considered his response to political censorship, balances grandeur with emotional depth. Later symphonies, such as the Eighth and Fourteenth, delve into themes of war and death, using stark textures and powerful contrasts to convey their messages.

His concertos, particularly for piano, violin, and cello, showcase both virtuosity and lyrical intensity. The First Cello Concerto, written for Mstislav Rostropovich, is notable for its bold structure and expressive range. Similarly, his Piano Concerto no.1 stands out for its wit and originality, blending classical form with jazz-like energy.

Shostakovich’s 15 string quartets form a deeply personal body of work. Unlike his public-facing symphonies, the quartets are introspective, often revealing his inner turmoil. The Eighth Quartet is especially poignant, widely interpreted as a self-portrait filled with coded references and bleak emotional content.

In ballet, Shostakovich contributed scores such as The Golden Age and The Bolt, works that combine satire, modernist flair, and Soviet themes. These compositions often clashed with official ideology but are now appreciated for their rhythmic vitality and sharp characterisations. The jazz suites show his playful, satirical side. They feature catchy dance rhythms and unconventional instrumentation, such as the saxophone and banjo. These works blend classical technique with popular idioms, reflecting Shostakovich’s versatility and wit.

Shostakovich’s legacy lies in his ability to navigate artistic expression under a repressive regime, creating music that speaks both to his time and to universal human experiences.

Excellent performances by Rudolf Barshai (who worked closely together with the composer), National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine/Theodore Kuchar (both received a 10/10 rating on Classicstoday.com), and many others.