Dmitri Shostakovich

Dmitri Dmitriyevich Shostakovich was a Soviet-era Russian composer and pianist, internationally known after his First Symphony premiered in 1926. He had a complex relationship with the Soviet government, facing condemnation and censure, yet held positions such as a member of the Supreme Soviet and chairman of the RSFSR Union of Composers. Known for sharp contrasts and various musical techniques, he composed 15 symphonies, chamber works, operas, and film music. His posthumous reputation and scholarly interest have grown, inciting debate over his views on the Soviet government【27†source】.