Symphony No. 5 in D Minor, Op. 47
Dmitri Shostakovich
Work background
Researched classical background
Shostakovich composed his Fifth Symphony after official criticism placed his career in danger. Its public success helped restore his standing, but the music's emotional implications remain debated. A large opening movement and satirical dance-like scherzo lead to a deeply sustained Largo and a forceful finale. The final celebration can sound convincing or strained depending on interpretation, without proving one exclusive political message.
A listening guide
Compare the restrained Largo with the finale and consider how tempo changes the character of its repeated figures.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra
Composition: 1937
Written and first performed in the aftermath of the public denunciation of Shostakovich's opera.
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.
Date, title and version notes
Interpretations of the finale as sincere triumph or forced rejoicing remain contested.
Symphony No. 5 in D minor, Op. 47 - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Symphony No. 5 in D minor, Op. 47 - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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