Shostakovich’s most famous String Quartet No.8 takes centre stage, performed alongside Quartet No.3. Deeply expressive, raw and emotional, both quartets are rich with evocation and allusion – to Shostakovich’s own work, to the sounds of battle, and with his response in the aftermath of war.

Part of Music in the Round’s Shostakovich Weekend, Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 March 2025.

Immerse yourself in the chamber music of enigmatic Soviet-Russian composer Dimitri Shostakovich (1906-1975), one of the most important composers of the 20th century. This specially curated weekend of music and insights celebrating the composer in his 50th anniversary year includes performances of his intimate chamber works and a fascinating Roundtable with Durham University’s specialist in Soviet music, Professor Patrick Zuk.