Matthias Goerne. Accompanied
With the conclusion of their Shostakovich cycle, Andris Nelsons and the Boston Symphony Orchestra explore the composer's evolving personality and political stances during the Soviet era. Symphonies Nos. 2, 3, 12, and 13 reflect a 35-year period of Shostakovich's artistic and personal development, ranging from the optimism of his youth to a more disillusioned and resigned state of mind. Of particular note is the impressive performance of the "Babi Yar" solos in the Thirteenth Symphony by bass-baritone Matthias Goerne. He is accompanied by the Tanglewood Festival Chorus, which also performs in Symphonies Nos. 2 and 3, and the New England Conservatory Philharmonic Choir. The New York Times has given high praise to this production, which has won three Grammy Awards.