Shostakovich's Symphony No. 5

The book delves into the controversial Symphony No. 5 by Shostakovich, composed during Stalin's Purges. It explores the symphony's composition, the composer's struggles, and the cultural context. It reveals secrets in the score, including references to Bizet's Carmen and the influence of Beethoven and Tchaikovsky. The book sheds light on the controversy surrounding the symphony's tempo markings and their impact on its reception in the West.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 07 March 2024
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The book delves into the enigmatic and controversial Symphony No. 5 by Shostakovich, composed during the height of Stalin's Purges. This symphony not only rescued Shostakovich from official disfavor but also deeply moved audiences worldwide. While critics recognized it as a masterpiece, they were perplexed by its ambiguities, particularly at the end. Some saw it as a joyous final victory of socialism, while others heard a sinister and oppressive force. The controversy persisted, even with two different tempo markings for the closing section, both approved by the composer.

The authors provide an authoritative account of the tempo controversy and its impact on the work's reception in the West. They explore the history of the symphony's composition, the pressures Shostakovich faced during that time, and the cultural environment that shaped the work. At the core of this exploration is the musical score itself, filled with secrets that have taken decades to uncover. One of the most colorful revelations is Shostakovich's extensive references to Bizet's Carmen, and the connection between these and his lover of the mid-30s, Lala Carmen (Elena Konstantinovskaya).

The authors demonstrate how Shostakovich largely set aside his influences from Mahler and German modernists, instead absorbing Beethoven and Tchaikovsky with the same ingenuity. He decided to make a virtue of a necessity and created one of the richest symphonic scores, allowing himself to retain his artistic integrity.

Symphony No. 5 is a testament to Shostakovich's resilience and creativity, showcasing his ability to navigate the complexities of political and artistic circumstances. It remains a masterpiece that continues to captivate and inspire audiences, leaving a lasting impact on the world of music.

Weight: 230g
Dimension: 141 x 210 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197566336