"Arcanum: Shostakovich & Auerbach" is a captivating chamber music album released on ECM New Series, featuring the dynamic duo of violist Kim Kashkashian and composer-pianist Lera Auerbach. The album showcases Auerbach's arrangements of Dmitri Shostakovich's 24 Preludes, Op. 34, originally composed for piano, masterfully adapted for viola and piano. The preludes, known for their playful and introspective nature, offer a diverse range of emotions and moods, from the lively "Allegro vivace" in D Major to the somber "Adagio" in E-Flat Minor.
In addition to the Shostakovich preludes, the album also includes Auerbach's own compositions, presented in four movements titled "Advenio," "Cinis," "Postremo," and "Adempte." These pieces, along with the preludes, create a rich and engaging musical journey that highlights the exceptional artistry of both Kashkashian and Auerbach. The album's duration is approximately 58 minutes, providing a concise yet fulfilling listening experience. "Arcanum: Shostakovich & Auerbach" is a testament to the enduring appeal of classical chamber music and the innovative spirit of its performers.
Dmitri Shostakovich, born in St. Petersburg in 1906, was a towering figure in 20th-century classical music, renowned for his profound and emotionally charged compositions. His musical journey began at the prestigious St. Petersburg Conservatory, where he honed his skills as a composer and pianist in the wake of the Russian Revolutions. Shostakovich's international breakthrough came with the premiere of his First Symphony in 1926, establishing him as a major composer.
His music is celebrated for its rapid shifts in emotional intensity and its semantic depth, often laced with irony and subtle political commentary. Navigating the complex political landscape of the Soviet era, Shostakovich's works are a testament to his resilience and adaptability. Despite the pressures of his time, he created some of the most vital and original music of the 20th century, leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical and chamber music. His legacy endures, inspiring generations with his profound and evocative compositions.
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Dmitri Shostakovich
