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Uncovered video shows Dmitri Shostakovich personally playing the piano

Emerged video showcases renowned composer skillfully playing piano, exhibiting astonishing virtuosity and breathtaking speed as anticipated.

Unearthed video of Dmitri Shostakovich personally performing on the piano
Unearthed video of Dmitri Shostakovich personally performing on the piano

Uncovered video shows Dmitri Shostakovich personally playing the piano

In a captivating find, a video of the renowned Russian composer and pianist, Dmitri Shostakovich, has been shared on Instagram. The video, dated 19 September 2024, was shared by Bastian Osis, who cited Peter Laul as the video's source.

The video features Shostakovich, born in 1906, playing a fast and nimble rendition of his own piano arrangement from his opera, Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk. The recording, published by Armen Babakhanian, who performed the piano part in a concert program featuring the Adagio for String Orchestra from Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk, showcases Shostakovich's incredible virtuosity and mind-blowing speed.

The piece, with its nostalgic, muffled sound and a hint of untuned dissonance, is a testament to Shostakovich's unique style. The video's caption reads, "I found a video of the ACTUAL Shostakovich playing piano."

Born in 1906, Shostakovich began his musical journey under the tutelage of his mother, a professional pianist, at the tender age of nine. He later entered the Paris Conservatoire in 1919, where composer Alexander Glazunov was director of the institution.

Shostakovich's life was marked by a tumultuous relationship with the authorities. By 1936, he had upset the Soviet establishment, an event that was further highlighted when Joseph Stalin attended a performance of Shostakovich's operatic, Lady Macbeth of the Mtsensk. Despite this, Shostakovich remained focused throughout his life, producing his First Symphony when he was just 19 and continuing to create music until the very end.

The video is a rare gem, capturing a classical composer from the earlier years of the 1900s. It provides a glimpse into Shostakovich's personal connection with his music, a connection that is evident in the rudimentary and forceful nature of his playing, similar to his music.

This video serves as a reminder of Shostakovich's immense talent and the lasting impact his music continues to have on audiences today.

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