Shostakovich's Symphony No. 5: UMD Symphony Orchestra

Dmitri Shostakovich’s fifth symphony came about during a time of intense political persecution. The interpretation of this piece has been hotly debated since its premiere, as many saw it as a criticism of the then dictator, thinly veiled behind exuberant adoration. While we may never know the true meaning behind the composition, one thing is for sure: Shostakovich’s orchestration and thematic development create an extraordinary piece that has con...