Dmitri Shostakovich composed and performed music under an oppressive Soviet regime that demanded its artists toe the official party line under any and all circumstances. Artists who were perceived to stray from the party line tended to disappear. And it is well documented— including on Festivals such as this one— that the music of Shostakovich is invariably tied to the idea of dissent. He needled, parodied, advocated, wept and fake-laughed, all under the guise of doing his Soviet best. The Piano Quintet in G minor is no exception… except in the way that it is an exception. For this piece, Shostakovich won the inaugural Stalin Prize, First-Class, and was awarded 100,000 rubles cash money. Rubles-Schmoobles you say? In 1941, 100,000 RUB equaled 20,000 USD. $20,000 in 1941 equals about $427,557 today.
It goes without saying that you will want to join us at Foundry Vineyards to see and hear what all the fuss is about! And a ticket is just $25. That’s 2,100 RUB if you’re curious. And we do not accept them.
Dmitri Shostakovich (1906-1975)
Piano Quintet in G minor, Op. 57
I. Prelude: Lento
II. Fugue: Adagio
III. Scherzo: Allegretto
IV. Intermezzo: Lento
V. Finale: Allegretto
Artists: Timothy Christie, viola; Conor Hanick, piano; Norbert Lewandowski, cello; Stephen Miahky, violin; Philip Payton, violin