Shostakovich: Symphony No. 14; Six Poems of Marina Tsvetaeva

Dive into the profound and introspective world of Dmitri Shostakovich with his compelling album, "Symphony No. 14; Six Poems of Marina Tsvetaeva." Released on January 1, 1993, under Decca Music Group Ltd., this classical masterpiece is a testament to Shostakovich's genius, blending chamber music with deeply evocative compositions.

The album opens with Shostakovich's Symphony No. 14 in G Minor, Op. 135, a work that sets texts from various poets, including Guillaume Apollinaire, Federico García Lorca, Wilhelm Küchelbecker, and Rainer Maria Rilke. Each movement of the symphony is a journey through different emotions and narratives, from the somber "De profundis" to the lively "Malagueña" and the haunting "Loreley." The symphony concludes with the reflective "Schlussstück," leaving the audience in a state of contemplation.

Following the symphony, the album presents Six Poems of Marina Tsvetaeva, Op. 143a. These settings of poems by the renowned Russian poet Marina Tsvetaeva showcase Shostakovich's ability to translate poetic verse into musical form. Each poem is a vignette, offering a glimpse into the depths of human experience, from the introspective "My Poems" to the dramatic "The Poet and the Tsar."

With a total duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, this album is a substantial exploration of Shostakovich's later works. It's a perfect addition for those who appreciate the intricacies of classical music and the depth of chamber compositions. Shostakovich's unique ability to blend text and music creates a rich tapestry of sound and meaning, making this album a standout in his illustrious career.