Dmitri Shostakovich

About

Prominent and influential 20th-century composer who reflected the moods of Soviet life under Joseph Stalin in his works. His oeuvre included 15 symphonies, six concerti, 15 string quartets, a piano quintet, two piano trios, and the score for the film 'The First Echelon' from 1955-1956.

Before Fame

His graduation piece was also his breakthrough composition, 1926's First Symphony.

Trivia

He had a contentious relationship with the Soviet government, never being as passionate about Marxism as they would have preferred and often protesting the Stalin regime. However, this never hindered his piano playing or his compositions.

Family Life

He married Nina Varzar on May 13, 1932, then Margarita Kainova in July 1956, and finally, Irina Supinskaya in December 1962.

Associated With

He was heavily influenced by Igor Stravinsky and Sergei Prokofiev early on, before transitioning to a personally developed hybrid style with "Lady Macbeth of the Mtsensk District" from 1934.