Piece-Info

A musical testament

Scarcely another orchestral work of the 20th century carries greater symbolic power than Shostakovich’s »Leningrad« symphony. Written during the German siege of the Soviet city in World War II, it was officially dedicated by the composer to »the fight against fascism«. On 9 August 1942, the symphony was broadcast in the centre of the besieged city. The »Leningrad« was quickly taken up by the Allies: Sir Henry Wood conducted the London premiere, while in the USA it was first presented by Arturo Toscanini. As a requiem for the victims of the war, the »Leningrad« triggered a wave of sympathy. Until today its urgent call for peace has lost none of its power.  

Programme

Dmitri Schostakowitsch Symphonie Nr. 7 C-Dur op. 60 »Leningrader«

More info: staatskapelle-dresden.de