Presents
Dmitri Shostakovich
Prelude and Scherzo for String Octet, Op.11
Dmitri Shostakovich (1906-1975) needs no introduction. He is one of the most famous composers of the 20th century. His fame rests primarily upon his symphonies, which are often performed. His chamber music, on the other hand is almost never heard, outside of Russia, in the concert hall, although it has received a fair number of recordings, which are mostly of his string quartets. His Prelude and Scherzo for String Octet has not been so lucky.
Shostakovich began work on it in 1924, while still a student at the Leningrad Conservatory. It was completed the next year and dedicated to the memory of a close friend, the poet Vladimir Kurchavov.(1900-1925), who died of tuberculosis. In it, the first violin is given a virtuosic part. The opening Prelude, though it sounds nothing like him, is clearly meant as an homage to Bach. It is dominated by powerful, ominous chords, heard at the beginning. Several highly contrasting episodes follow. Scholars have determined that Shostakovich had originally intended to add a fugue to the work as well. The second movement, Scherzo, was composed almost a year later. Again there are several contrasting episodes, some violent and full of fire, some gentle.
Parts: $39.95
Parts & Score: $54.95
