Symphony No. 2 in B major, To October
Dmitri Shostakovich
Work background
Researched classical background
Shostakovich composed To October for the tenth anniversary of the October Revolution. A densely layered orchestral opening leads through contrasting episodes toward a choral conclusion. The brief work does not follow the usual four-movement symphonic plan. Its combination of experimental textures and an explicit celebratory text reflects a particular public commission in the composer's early career.
Inspiration and creative background
Commissioned to mark the tenth anniversary of the October Revolution.
Boosey & Hawkes: Shostakovich Second Symphony
1927, Op.14, B major, revolutionary anniversary commission and choral conclusion | Reviewed 2026-10-19
A listening guide
Listen for the increasingly distinct layers in the opening and the arrival of the chorus.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Mixed chorus and orchestra
Composition: 1927
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Also known as: To October; Dedication to October
Boosey & Hawkes: Shostakovich Second Symphony
1927, Op.14, B major, revolutionary anniversary commission and choral conclusion | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Boosey & Hawkes / Sikorski: Shostakovich chronological work list
Work dates, opuses, keys, voices and revision information | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Boosey & Hawkes: Shostakovich Second Symphony
1927, Op.14, B major, revolutionary anniversary commission and choral conclusion | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Boosey & Hawkes / Sikorski: Shostakovich chronological work list
Work dates, opuses, keys, voices and revision information | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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