Shostakovich vs. Bach

No pianist embodies the spirit of Shostakovich quite like his compatriot, Alexander Melnikov. He is a much-loved performer at the Muziekgebouw, where he once dazzled audiences with his performance of Shostakovich’s complete Preludes and fugues. The Guardian called his interpretation of the dramatic and witty First Piano Concerto ‘tremendous’ and awarded it a full five stars. It is also on today’s programme. Two extremes: Shostakovich and Bach. Troubled, nervous, propelled music versus balance, contemplation and serenity. Opposites meet. Melnikov and the Australian Chamber Orchestra are up to the task. ‘If there’s a better chamber orchestra in the world today, I’ve not heard it,’ wrote the Guardian about the orchestra.