Watch Keeping Score: Shostakovich Symphony No. 5

Keeping Score: Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 is a documentary film that presents the compelling story of a renowned conductor, Michael Tilson Thomas, and the San Francisco Symphony in their quest to understand and interpret one of the greatest works of the 20th century classical music. The film is a part of the Keeping Score series, which explores the lives, works, and legacies of major composers, such as Beethoven, Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky, and Copland, in a way that makes classical music accessible and relevant to modern audiences.

The film opens with Tilson Thomas introducing the Symphony No. 5 by Dmitry Shostakovich, a Russian composer who lived through the brutal Stalinist regime and whose music reflects the political and social turmoil of his time. Tilson Thomas describes the unique challenges and rewards of conducting Shostakovich's music, with its intricate structures, powerful emotions, and ambiguous meanings. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical and cultural context of the Symphony, as well as the musical motifs and themes that recur throughout the four movements.

The film then takes us on a journey through the history of Russia in the 20th century, from the revolutionary ideals of Lenin and Trotsky to the oppressive regime of Stalin and the purges of the 1930s. We see archival footage of the Red Army, the state propaganda, the secret police, and the show trials that enforced conformity and silenced dissent. We also hear from experts on Russian history and music, who shed light on the complex relationships between the government and the arts, the role of censorship, and the ways in which composers like Shostakovich navigated the political and artistic landscapes of their time.

As the film progresses, we witness the evolution of the San Francisco Symphony's interpretation of the Symphony No. 5, as Tilson Thomas leads the musicians in intensive rehearsals, master classes, and discussions. We see their meticulous attention to every detail of the score, from the dynamic markings and phrasing to the emotional nuances and contrasts. We also see their creative collaboration, as they experiment with different tempos, moods, and expressions, and seek to find their own voice within Shostakovich's vision.

Throughout the film, we hear excerpts from the Symphony No. 5, performed live by the San Francisco Symphony in the stunning Davies Symphony Hall. We are immersed in the rich and complex sound of the orchestra, as well as the soloists who showcase their virtuosity and sensitivity. We are also introduced to the various instruments and sections of the orchestra, and learn about the techniques and skills that go into producing the specific sounds and effects that Shostakovich desired.

In addition to the music itself, the film highlights the personal and emotional dimensions of the Symphony No. 5, both for the composer and for the performers. We learn about Shostakovich's own struggles with censorship, persecution, and self-doubt, and how his music became a way of expressing his anguish, defiance, and hope. We also hear from the musicians of the San Francisco Symphony, who share their own stories of how the Symphony No. 5 has affected their lives and their art, and how they endeavor to honor its legacy and relevance.

Overall, Keeping Score: Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 is a riveting and enlightening exploration of one of the masterpieces of classical music, and the people who bring it to life. It combines historical context, musical analysis, and personal insights in a way that engages both seasoned music lovers and newcomers to the genre. It demonstrates how classical music can be a powerful tool for understanding the world around us, and for expressing our deepest thoughts and feelings.

Keeping Score: Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 is a 2009 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes.