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In the Forum: Musical Discussions
In the Thread: The "new" Shostakovich 10th symphony
Post Subject: Yeah - OK !Posted by JANDL100 on: 10/25/2007
Yes, I would agree that music can validly be viewed in its historical/political perspective as well - I was just trying to be polite and pour some soothing oil on the troubled waters of our postings!! :-)
I have read Testimony, and it seems to me that Volkov clearly has a heavy anti-Soviet agenda that he wants to put over. I am sure that it also bears much truth as to the activities of the Soviet authorities, even if DSCH's beliefs, attitudes and involvement may not be truthfully presented.
I am happier though just to regard DSCH music as absolute so that it stands on its own - is it good or bad to listen to ?
I agree that a lot of the orchestral/choral music is pro-Soviet propaganda crap pumped out by a good, card carrying servant of the regime who is eager to please his political masters. But some of it (like the orchestral music I listed above) is absolutely masterful and IMO will withstand any musical comparison with other composers.
The violin concertos, for example, are to me "absolute music" and can be compared with any other music ever written, just as much as the wonderful chamber music (string quartets etc) that you have referred to.
Just my opinion!
Rgds, Jerry
P.S. Romy - your CDs arrived today. Wow - lots of interesting listening ahead - many thanks!Rerurn to Romy the Cat's Site