Orchestra Wellington’s 2025 season commemorates the 50th anniversary of Dimitri Shostakovich’s death, tracing the meteoric rise of a teenage wunderkind, celebrated by his country, who eventually faced censure and potential imprisonment, or worse. This perilous history feels all too relevant today. Shostakovich must be considered the most consequential composer of the twentieth century, especially when viewed through the lens of how his music continues to be received and interpreted.
How does the artist exist in society? How do they respond to repression, reveal (or disguise) their thoughts, and connect? These questions shape this season.
Spanning a tumultuous 15-year period, The Dictator’s Shadow presents 20th-century symphonies and an opera that journey through experimentation, official rebuke, and artistic response. Orchestra Wellington features the superb talents of some of New Zealand’s most stunning musicians and composers alongside internationally renowned talent to craft and share a gripping story in this 2025 season of The Dictator’s Shadow.
Great first performance with a perfect performance of the violin concerto . Shostakovich full of fire and passion, which is the style of music I like.