@danielanastasio2: Dmitri Shostakovich’s writing is often biting, sarcastic, and extremely bleak, and his Piano Trio in E Minor is a perfect example. Living in Leningrad during World War II, he was profoundly affected by the war and experienced the notorious Siege of Leningrad first-hand. As the musicologist Erik Levi explains, the fourth movement of this trio seems to be an illustration of an especially shocking war account… Meanwhile, this entire trio is dedicated to Shostakovich’s closest friend Ivan Sollertinsky, who died suddenly as Shostakovich was beginning the work. So while the 2nd and 4th movements are in major keys and have the character of an exciting dance, the context is everything. #shostakovich #classicalmusic #musichistory #musicappreciation #piano