Search - Dmitry Shostakovich, Mstislav Rostropovich, National Symphony Orchestra :: Shostakovich: Symphony No. 7 "Leningrad"

A spectacular value

cmk | Oregon | 10/26/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a spectacular performance. Rostropovich knew and worked with the composer, and this, part of his complete cycle, shows his complete understanding of Shostakovich's idiom. The National symphony is magnificent throughout, particular kudos to the brass. I still slightly favor Bernstein on DG, but his is on 2 full price discs. If you've never heard the piece before, I highly recommend this disc as an introduction. It's a spectacular value, and a performance of the highest integrity."

From Leningrad To Washington

Erik North | San Gabriel, CA USA | 12/12/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Seventh Symphony of Dmitri Shostakovich, named "Leningrad" in honor of the city where the composer was holed up in 1941 during the Nazi invasion of Russia while composing the work, is almost certainly the longest and largest symphony ever created by a Russian composer to occupy a spot in the orchestral repertoire. In its 72-minute running time, it is a great affirmation of the Russian people and their triumph over the forces of Hitler's evil, minus the propaganda and threats that the composer often had to contend with at the hands of Stalin.



Of all the many recordings that this work has received, this one made by the legendary cellist-turned-conductor Mstislav Rostropovich is about as incisive as any. Rostropovich knew the composer very well, and it is that experience that he brings to this recording with the National Symphony Orchestra of Washington D.C., whose music director he was from 1977 to 1995. Often considered "The Nation's Orchestra" because of its locale, the N.S.O. has often been overshadowed by its far more illustrious neighbors to the north in Philadelphia, New York, and Boston. Under Rostropovich's precise direction, however, the orchestra makes the "Leningrad" shine in all its power, fury, terror, and triumph. Hugely recommended for 20th century classical fans in general, and 20th century Russian music in particular."

Comment

Babu | NY, NY | 01/05/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Was surprised how much I liked it. The first movement reminds me of Ravel's "Bolero", but the theme does reappear all the way through. I'm surprised it is not thought of as opne of Shostakovich's top ones."