Shostakovich: Leningrad Symphony | Philharmonia Orchestra

Yuri Temirkanov brings a personal connection to the Leningrad Symphony, dedicated to the city whose orchestra he has led for over 30 years.

Whether Shostakovich originally wrote it in response to the Second World War is unknown but from the start of the famous ‘Invasion’ march of the first movement, his symphony resonated with audiences across Russia and beyond. Composed on an epic scale, the music crosses landscapes, from understated string melodies to fierce attacking brass.

Alongside, a virtuosic work by Shostakovich’s contemporary Sergei Prokofiev. Opening quietly with twinkling melodies and his trademark light touch, Prokofiev’s expansive Second Piano Concerto balances lyrical solo piano passages with menacing orchestral moments - brought into particular focus in the dramatic third movement. Further raising the musical stakes, the devilish fourth movement moves through the piano's entire range, building to a monumental final flourish.