Shostakovich, D.: Girl Friends / Rule, Britannia / Salute To Spain

Dive into the captivating world of Dmitri Shostakovich with this remarkable album, featuring a collection of his lesser-known yet profoundly impactful works. Released on Naxos in 2009, this album spans a little over an hour and twelve minutes, offering a rich tapestry of classical chamber music that showcases Shostakovich's versatility and depth.

The centerpiece of the album is "Podrugi (Girl Friends)," Op. 41a, a reconstructed work that tells a compelling story through its various movements. From the hauntingly beautiful "The Year 1914" to the poignant "Zamuchen tiazheloi nevolei [Tormented by a Lack of Freedom]," and the dramatic "Internationale: The girls leave for war," this suite is a journey through historical and personal narratives, expertly reconstructed by M. Fitz-Gerald.

Complementing "Podrugi" are two other significant works: "Prav', Britaniya (Rule, Britannia)," Op. 28, and "Salyut, Ispaniya (Hail, Spain)," Op. 44. These pieces are arranged for vocal ensemble and orchestra, adding layers of complexity and richness to the album. "Rule, Britannia" includes powerful movements like "Internationale" and "Protest," while "Hail, Spain" features stirring compositions such as "A las barricadas! [To the Barricades!]" and "Lucia's Funeral March."

The album concludes with a "Symphonic Movement: Symphonic Fragment (1st version of Symphony no. 9)," offering a glimpse into Shostakovich's symphonic genius. Throughout the album, Shostakovich's ability to convey deep emotion, historical context, and musical brilliance is evident, making this a compelling listen for both classical music enthusiasts and those new to Shostakovich's work.