Watch Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 and Gershwin's Concerto

Dmitry Shostakovich's Symphony No. 5 holds a special place in the history of music. First performed in 1937, it was presented as a political response to criticism of his earlier works. The Symphony No. 5 has since become a celebrated piece of classical music and is widely regarded as one of Shostakovich's finest compositions. In this movie, we get a rare opportunity to witness the London Symphony Orchestra deliver a powerful performance of the Symphony No. 5, conducted by none other than Shostakovich himself. The movie is a visual and audio feast, capturing the grandeur and intensity of the orchestra in full flight.

The Symphony No. 5 is divided into four movements, each of which has its own unique character and mood. The opening movement is a brooding and tense affair, punctuated by the ominous brass section. The second movement, marked by a haunting string section, is a poignant reflection on the human condition. The third movement is a frenzied and chaotic piece, incorporating various elements of Russian folk music. Finally, the fourth movement is a triumphant and uplifting conclusion, with the London Symphony Orchestra building to a monumental climax.

In addition to the Symphony No. 5, the movie also features Gershwin's Concerto in F, another iconic piece of classical music. The Concerto is a celebration of the American spirit, blending jazz and classical elements to great effect. The London Symphony Orchestra is joined by a solo pianist, who delivers a virtuosic performance that perfectly captures the playful and energetic spirit of the piece.

Throughout the movie, we get glimpses of Shostakovich himself, seated in the audience and visibly moved by the orchestra's performance. The movie is as much a tribute to his legacy as it is to the music itself.

One of the most striking aspects of the movie is the way it captures the interplay between the musicians. We see close-ups of individual players, each lost in their own world as they contribute to the larger whole. We hear the subtle nuances of each instrument, from the delicate plucking of a harp to the thunderous booms of the percussion section. And we witness the way the musicians respond to each other, picking up cues and cues and feeding off each other's energy.

The movie is a testament to the power of music to move and inspire us. It reminds us of the beauty that can be found in even the most tumultuous times, and the way music can transcend language, culture, and politics. Whether you're a fan of classical music or not, this movie is sure to leave you spellbound by the beauty and emotion of the Symphony No. 5 and Gershwin's Concerto in F.

Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 and Gershwin's Concerto is a 2015 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes.