Mozart & Shostakovich: The Power of 10

What comes to mind when we think of the number 10? Maybe a decade, the age of a loved one, or even the Ten Commandments. On the next broadcast by The Phoenix Symphony, we explore Mozart & Shostakovich: The Power of 10.

Airing Monday at 7:00 p.m. on KNAU Arizona Public Radio, DTV 8.5, Classical Arizona PBS, and Classical 89.5 KBACH, the program features Virginia G. Piper Music Director Tito Muñoz conducting The Phoenix Symphony in works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Dmitri Shostakovich: Mozart’s Concerto No. 10 in E-flat major for Two Pianos & Orchestra, K. 365, and Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 10 in E minor, Op. 93.

The concert opens with the world premiere of The Sound of Space Between Us by Annie Nikunen, a multidisciplinary artist from New York. Known for blending music, movement, and visual storytelling, Nikunen uses her background in dance and composition to create immersive experiences that connect sound and physicality. In this orchestral piece, she explores themes of memory and longing, inviting audiences to experience a sensory journey that reflects her unique approach to music and movement.

Following Nikunen’s piece, the program continues with Mozart’s Concerto for Two Pianos, K. 365, composed in 1779. Written after a European tour that exposed Mozart to diverse musical styles, this concerto reflects his skill in blending virtuosity with lyricism. Unlike traditional concertos featuring a single soloist, K. 365 places two pianos in conversation, with the orchestra taking a supportive role.

The first movement opens with an energetic orchestral introduction, leading to the soloists’ playful exchange—a balance of mutual support and dazzling interplay that’s difficult to separate. In the introspective second movement, a plaintive oboe melody sets the tone as the pianos engage in a graceful back-and-forth. The final movement bursts with exuberance, characterized by a lively rondo theme and a brilliant cadenza, concluding the concerto on a joyous note. Through this work, Mozart not only showcases his technical brilliance but also his gift for musical conversation, likely intending this piece for himself and his sister, Nannerl, to perform together.

Anchoring the program is Dmitri Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 10, a powerful work steeped in historical significance. Written shortly after Stalin’s death in 1953, the symphony reflects Shostakovich’s tumultuous life under the oppressive Soviet regime. His music was censored, his friends disappeared, and he lived in constant fear of persecution. The Tenth Symphony serves as both a personal catharsis and a commentary on the suffering inflicted by dictatorship.

Although composed in Stalin’s shadow, the work’s origins may date back to 1951, as suggested by pianist Tatyana Nikolaeva, adding complexity to its narrative. The symphony could embody both a response to Stalin’s regime and relief at his passing. In this piece, Shostakovich channels the emotions of those years, with some interpreting it as a portrayal of Stalin himself. Upon its premiere, it received mixed reactions; while some found it baffling, others saw in it a profound emotional depth. Conductor Kurt Sanderling remarked that for those who lived through Stalin’s reign, it was a vivid portrait of him; for contemporary audiences, it’s a statement on the perils of dictatorship.

The symphony’s four movements weave together motifs and personal symbols, including a musical signature derived from Shostakovich’s name. This adds intimacy to its broader themes of resilience. Today, Symphony No. 10 endures as a testament to the human spirit’s strength amid adversity.

Pianists Michael Stephen Brown and Adam Golka join the program as soloists in the Mozart concerto, each bringing unique artistry to the stage. Brown, celebrated as a “fearless performer” by The New York Times, has appeared with orchestras such as the Seattle Symphony and frequently collaborates with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. Known for his work with cellist Nicholas Canellakis, Brown has earned acclaim for his compositions and recordings, including his album Noctuelles, praised by BBC Music Magazine as “a glowing presentation.”

Golka, renowned for his Beethoven interpretations, has performed the complete Beethoven sonatas and studied with mentors like Sir András Schiff and Leon Fleisher. A passionate chamber musician, he regularly performs across Europe and the United States.

Don’t miss this extraordinary concert on Monday at 7:00 p.m., part of our ten-program series celebrating timeless music. Tune in on KNAU Arizona Public Radio, DTV 8.5, Classical Arizona PBS, or Classical 89.5 KBACH.