Description
Shostakovich: Symphonies Nos. 5, 8 & 9 · Hamlet Suite – Boston Symphony Orchestra, Andris Nelsons / 2 Audio CDs
UPC: 028947952015
MPN: 479 5201 GH2
Brand Name: Deutsche Grammophon
Overview
Part of the acclaimed Under Stalin’s Shadow cycle, this 2-CD set captures Andris Nelsons and the Boston Symphony Orchestra performing Shostakovich’s pivotal wartime and postwar works. The program features the monumental Symphony No. 5, the darkly tragic Symphony No. 8, the ironically playful Symphony No. 9, and excerpts from the Hamlet Suite. Recorded live at Symphony Hall, Boston, these performances continue a Grammy-winning series hailed for its depth, precision, and emotional impact.
Product Features
- Format: 2 Audio CDs
- Total Duration: CD 1 – 76:44 | CD 2 – 80:54
- Performers: Boston Symphony Orchestra
- Conductor: Andris Nelsons
- Label: Deutsche Grammophon
- Series: Under Stalin’s Shadow
- Release Year: 2016
- Recording: Live, Symphony Hall, Boston
- Genre: Classical, Orchestral, Symphonies
Interesting Facts
- Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5 (1937) was officially subtitled “A Soviet Artist’s Response to Just Criticism.” While publicly satisfying Stalinist demands, it secretly conveyed defiance and emotional depth.
- The Eighth Symphony (1943), composed during World War II, portrays immense suffering and tragedy, earning its reputation as one of Shostakovich’s darkest works.
- The Ninth Symphony (1945) shocked audiences expecting a triumphant postwar statement. Instead, Shostakovich delivered a light, satirical piece.
- The Hamlet Suite (1932, arranged in 1931/32 for theater) reveals Shostakovich’s dramatic flair, blending tension, wit, and irony.
- This recording continues Nelsons’ Grammy-winning survey of Shostakovich’s symphonies, praised by critics as “stunning,” “electrifying,” and “profoundly moving.”
Track Listing
CD 1
- Symphony No. 9 in E-flat Major, op. 70
- Symphony No. 5 in D Minor, op. 47
CD 2
- Suite from Hamlet, op. 32a (excerpts)
- Symphony No. 8 in C Minor, op. 65
Publishers
- Label: Deutsche Grammophon GmbH (Universal Music Company)
- Licensed By: Boston Symphony Orchestra Inc.
- Year: 2016
- Recording Location: Symphony Hall, Boston
- Made in: EU
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