LPO: Shostakovich’s Vision of War

Written at the height of World War II, Shostakovich's Symphony No. 8 is the centrepiece of the LPO season opener performing 24 Sept in the Royal Festival Hall

The London Philharmonic Orchestra open their 2014/2015 season by returning to the Russian roots of their principal conductor, Vladimir Jurowski. Shostakovich’s chilling Symphony No. 8 sits alongside Prokofiev’s light-hearted Third Piano Concerto. Chorale, a modern classic by Finnish composer Magnus Lindberg, completes the programme.

Currently the LPO’s Composer in Residence, Lindberg’s music is notable for his mastery of the orchestra. An enigmatic and haunting take on a movement from a cantata by J.S. Bach, the kaleidoscopic transformation of textures in Chorale has confirmed its place within the core repertoire. Prokofiev’s Third Piano Concerto is the most popular of the five written by the composer, with exuberant harmonies and lively rhythms somewhat interrupted by a tongue-in-cheek theme and variation middle movement. Although deemed one of his finest scores, Shostakovich’s Eight Symphony seldom appears in concert halls. Written during the Second World War, the work encapsulates the composer’s horror at the suffering and violence which surrounded him. Bleak textures, disjointed melodic lines and mechanical rhythms present a nightmarish vision of war, culminating in a hollow conclusion. 

French pianist Jean-Efflam Bavouzet’s elegant and colourful performances are well-suited to the sunny nature of the Prokofiev, while Jurowski’s partnership with the LPO (now in its 7th season) has raised the orchestra to new levels. Don’t miss this chance to hear a rarely heard gem by one of the most significant symphonists of the twentieth century given what will undoubtedly be a gripping performance from an ensemble at the top of their game.