Zoryana Kushpler; Vladimir Spivakov; Ewa Kupiec; Margarete Babinsky; Holger Busch; Petersen Quartet; Moscow Virtuosi - Dmitri Shostakovich: Chamber Music - Chamber Symphony; String Quartet; Piano Sonatas

Dmitri Shostakovich is undoubtedly one of the most significant composers of the 20th century who left works of greatness in every genre, from the symphonies to opera, film scores, light music, concertos and, of course, chamber music. This collection presents a wonderful overview of his contributions to that last genre. It features favourites such as Rudolf Barshai's Chamber Symphony (an arrangement of Shostakovich's String Quartet No. 8), the String Quartet No. 1, and the Piano Quintet. Also included are lesser-known gems and rarely heard works for two pianos, including the brief, witty Tarantella and his dramatic, cinematic Concertino, Op. 94, all capped by Alfred Schnittke's tribute to the master, his Prelude in Memory of Dmitri Shostakovich.