SHOSTAKOVICH

Music Appreciation
Lectures
Monday Mornings
with
Matthew Taylor
Charlton House &
Blackheath Halls
Dmitri Shostakovich (1906-1975) is one of the most widely performed and accessible 20th
century composers and, at the same time, one of the most controversial. His tortuous life and ever
changing relationship with Soviet authorities has provoked discussion regarding the meaning,
interpretation and context of many of his major symphonic works. While the symphonies tend to
reveal his public side, his string quartets withdraw into increasingly private expression as he grew
older. He is also one of the most versatile of all Russian composers, showing mastery and brilliance
in other genres - from concerto to sonata, film scores to jazz suites and from song cycles to ballet.
Join us for this series which will assess the nature and genius of this remarkable, courageous artist.

Mondays from 10 am to 12 noon:

at Charlton House January 9, 16
in the Recital Room Blackheath Halls January 23, 30
February 6, 20, 27
March 6, 13, 20.
Single lectures: 10 - Course fee: 85
(or try a taster - for free)
For further details contact:
Lionel Lewis on 020 8297 1075
email: LJL@lioneljlewis.org.uk
www.blackheath-music.co.uk

Above: Photo of Shostakovich by Ida Kar (1959)

Below: Fireman Shostakovich in 1942, during the Battle of Leningrad
Poster design: Tom Butler (2016)