Requiem for D. Shostakovich

D. Shostakovich was one of the most influential Russian and Soviet composers of the 20th century. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of his death in 2025, we have dedicated a program to him and put together a program that invites many long-time string friends of the ensemble to make music with us again in string orchestra strength. Every 10 years, we initiate a project with a choral string ensemble and are delighted to be able to bring in musicians who have been with us for a long time. Shostakovich's late 14th Symphony op. 135 is the main work of the evening, for which we have been able to attract two internationally renowned vocal soloists. Before that, we will perform the world premiere of Shostakovich's Chamber Symphony in B flat minor op. 138a, which the artistic director (and successful arranger in personal union) Klaus Simon has arranged for string orchestra and two percussionists based on the 13th String Quartet.

Program:

1) Chamber Symphony in B flat minor, op. 138a (1970)
after the 13th String Quartet op. 138
arranged by Klaus Simon for two percussionists and string orchestra
Premiere

2) Symphony No. 14 op. 135 (1969)
for soprano, bass and chamber orchestra

Copyright: Boosey & Hawkes