Overview

One of the most authoritative and personal guides to the music of Dmitri Shostakovich. Written by world-renowned musician and musicologist Vladimir Zak-who knew Shostakovich personally-Shostakovich and the Jews offers a rare insider's perspective on the composer's life, music, and the subtle presence of Jewish motifs throughout his work. Classical music lovers will Be transported to the most turbulent chapters of Soviet history, witnessing Shostakovich's artistic development amid the terrors of Stalin's regime Follow the author's journey through the Soviet era, encountering major historical and cultural figures along the way Discover the depth and nuance of Shostakovich's musical language, including his coded messages, speech patterns, and stylistic choices Explore connections between Shostakovich's work and the music of Eastern European Jews, as well as broader currents in world music Structured as a mosaic of essays, diary-like reflections, and philosophical musings, Shostakovich and the Jews invites those interested in classical music to start anywhere and follow their curiosity. Some chapters unfold like cinematic short stories-perfect for fiction lovers and screenwriters-while others offer deep insight for musicians and serious listeners. Whether new to Shostakovich or a seasoned admirer, every reader will come away with a richer understanding of his genius.

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9781636988238

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Vladimir Zak (1929–2007) was an award-winning, world-famous musicologist. He studied music theory at the Moscow Conservatory under Professor V. A. Zukkerman, graduating summa cum laude in 1952. He held two doctorates: a PhD in musicology (1979) and a postdoctorate in music theory (1989) and was the author of five books and over three hundred articles. Zak presented his original music theory discovery, “The Line of Latent Mode (LLM),” at twenty-two international conferences and symposia. His works have been published in Russia, the UK, the US, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Israel, the Czech Republic, and Australia. He is also the author of music for several plays and TV shows. From 1962 on, he worked in the USSR Composers Union. From 1986 on, he was chairman of the musicological commission. In 1991, he moved to New York City, where he continued writing and publishing. He is known to audiences in the US as a brilliant speaker and an excellent music educator.

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