Composer: Dmitri Shostakovich
Works: Symphony No. 6 in B minor, Op. 54; The Execution of Stepan Razin, Op. 119
Performers: Anatoly Lochak (bass), Russian State Symphonic Cappella and Symphony Orchestra, Valeri Polyansky
Recording: Recorded in a Mosfilm Studio on June 18th, 1999, and Grand Hall of the Moscow Conservatory on June 14th, 2000
Label: CHANDOS CHAN9813
Dmitri Shostakovich’s legacy is an intricate tapestry woven from the threads of personal and political turmoil, and this recording showcases two contrasting facets of his genius: the introspective Symphony No. 6 and the assertive choral work, The Execution of Stepan Razin. While the Fifth Symphony often eclipses its predecessor in popularity, the Sixth stands as a profound statement of artistic identity, emerging in a period marked by Stalinist oppression. Its three-movement structure, particularly the expansive first movement, presents both a challenge and an opportunity for interpreters to delve into the emotional dichotomies that characterize Shostakovich’s oeuvre.
Valeri Polyansky’s interpretation of Symphony No. 6 is marked by a commendable technical precision and a thorough understanding of the work’s emotional landscape. The Russian State Symphony Orchestra delivers a robust performance, particularly evident in the weighty opening motif that sets the tone for the expansive first movement. Polyansky adeptly navigates the shifting dynamics, allowing moments of stillness to reverberate with tension before unleashing the orchestra’s full power. The 20-minute opening movement unfolds with an almost cinematic grandeur, showcasing the nuances of Shostakovich’s orchestration, which oscillates between the grotesque and the sublime. Yet, in the subsequent movements, particularly the finale, Polyansky’s reading sometimes falters, lacking the exuberance and raw energy that could elevate the work’s inherent vulgarity and playfulness. Comparatively, the live recordings by Mravinsky and the Leningrad Philharmonic offer an edgier approach that captures the spirit of rebellion more vividly, suggesting that a more uninhibited interpretation could amplify the symphony’s emotional resonance.
The Execution of Stepan Razin, a compelling narrative set against the backdrop of historical defiance, occupies nearly half of this recording yet remains a lesser-known gem. Here, Shostakovich’s orchestral palette shines, with rich textures that enhance the choral elements. The Russian State Symphonic Cappella, under Polyansky’s direction, excels in delivering the work’s dramatic arc, with Anatoly Lochak’s bass voice providing a commanding presence. His portrayal of Razin is both evocative and nuanced, embodying the rebellious spirit that Shostakovich sought to convey. The interplay between the soloist and the chorus evokes echoes of Stravinsky’s Les Noces, enriching the overall narrative depth. The engineering quality of this recording is commendable, capturing the clarity and richness of the ensemble, though one might wish for a more immediate presence that could further engage listeners.
The juxtaposition of these two works encapsulates Shostakovich’s complex relationship with authority and personal expression. Polyansky’s performance, while technically proficient, reveals a certain restraint that occasionally undermines the symphonic vigor of the Sixth. Conversely, The Execution of Stepan Razin emerges as a powerful testament to Shostakovich’s ability to blend storytelling with musical form, showcasing the defiance that lies at the heart of his artistic vision. This recording serves not only as a valuable addition to the Shostakovich discography but also as a reminder of the intricacies within his music, inviting listeners to explore the depths of his emotional landscape.
