Shostakovich: fast and furious?

Dmitri Shostakovich (1906-1975), Russian composer, wrote much of his music under the forced political influence of Stalin's communist reign, and is considered by some to be the quintessential 20th century Russian composer. His music is generally characterized by most as fast, energetic, and at times chaotic. His works often use a combination of unusual time signatures combined with unique chord progressions to produce what is known as 'Shostakovich's music'. Many even argue that 'Shosti' is best known for his fast music.

While Shostakovich did write much intense, energized music, he also had a more contemplative quiet side that many overlook. I enjoy these works as much if not more than what most classify as 'Shosti' music. I was very pleased, therefore, to find a piece that didn't follow this typical classification of his music. It is the second movement of his second piano concerto.

It is unlike any other second movement of any other concerto that I have ever heard. It is slow, starting with an introduction by the strings in C minor. This theme sounds like cold winter, frozen and desolate. It then leads into the piano's main theme in C Major, which is more nostalgic and happy, yet it has taints of sadness as well. After much development and a few more themes, the piece ends by dying away, back in C minor.

The entire piece is like a cold, barren winter, covered in snow. It is beautiful, very haunting, and is without doubt one of my favorite pieces of music ever composed. Some call it 'grim'; however, I find that there is very little 'grimness' about the piece, at least not in terms of foreboding or anxiety. It seems to be a sad reminder of the past.

To really appreciate the piece, you have to listen to it. Here is a link to a YouTube performance. Please feel free to leave a comment on your reaction to the piece.

I assure you, it will put an end to the stereotype of Shosti's music being only loud, fast, and manic. It will show you the more mysterious, yet genius side of this great composer.