Shostakovich composed Symphony No. 7, Op. 60, "Leningrad" in 1941 while the city was under siege by Nazi Germany during World War II. The composition reflects the composer's experience of life in besieged Leningrad and the hardships faced by the city's inhabitants. The symphony is divided into four movements, each with a distinct character and emotional intensity.
The first movement, marked "Allegro non troppo," gradually builds to a powerful climax, symbolizing the struggle and resistance of the people. The second movement, "Andante," is a slow and somber march, reflecting the sorrow and suffering endured by the city's population. The third movement, "Vivace," brings a sense of urgency and excitement, depicting the city's resilience and the hope for liberation. The final movement, "Allegro non assai, ma con brio," is a celebratory conclusion, celebrating the liberation of Leningrad and the victory over the Nazi forces.
The symphony is renowned for its complex structure and emotional depth, making it one of Shostakovich's most significant works. It has been performed in numerous concerts and recorded by various orchestras and conductors, including the famous recording by the Berlin Philharmonic under the direction of Herbert von Karajan.
Shostakovich himself conducted the premiere of Symphony No. 7 in Leningrad in 1942, which was broadcast live over the radio and later televised. The performance was a source of great pride and inspiration for the city's residents, who were under siege at the time.
The symphony has been used in various films and documentaries, further cementing its place in popular culture. It has also been referenced in various artistic works, including literature and visual arts, highlighting its enduring significance.
While the original title "ショスタコーヴィチ 交響曲 第 7 番 名 盤" is associated with a pornographic video, this article focuses on the musical and historical context of Dmitri Shostakovich's Symphony No. 7, Op. 60 "Leningrad."