Shostakovich: The Preludes & Fugues

Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Dmitri Shostakovich with the upcoming release, "Shostakovich: The Preludes & Fugues." This two-disc set, scheduled for release on July 4, 2025, under Orchid Classics, presents a comprehensive collection of Shostakovich's 24 Preludes and Fugues, Op. 87. Composed in 1950-1951, these deeply original and enigmatic works showcase Shostakovich's extraordinary fluency and mastery of form, encompassing charming simplicity and dazzling virtuosity.

Each of the 24 preludes and fugues is dedicated to Nikolayeva, a close friend and colleague of Shostakovich, and is written in a different key, offering a diverse and captivating exploration of the composer's artistic range. The album spans a total duration of 2 hours and 24 minutes, providing a substantial and immersive listening experience.

Recorded between February 24 and March 4, 2025, at the Mendelssohn-Saal, this new recording promises to bring fresh insights and interpretations to Shostakovich's monumental work. The album is a testament to Shostakovich's genius, offering listeners a chance to delve into the depths of his musical thought and creativity. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Shostakovich's work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

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.