Dmitri Shostakovich was born in St Petersburg on 25 September (12 September old style) 1906 and died in Moscow on 9 August 1975. As one of the most important figures in 20th century Soviet music – and indeed in 20th century music in general – much of his music is now a regular part of the repertory of orchestras and chamber ensembles.

Shostakovich lived through some of the most significant political events of the 20th century and he was just eleven years old when the October Revolution took place in 1917. He witnessed the massive changes that took place in his homeland and the creation of the Soviet state. He was no stranger to controversy and was at odds with official doctrine at various times throughout his career and while he was obliged to follow the Party line he nevertheless maintained his artistic integrity throughout his life.

Shostakovich wrote music in all genres but it is for the 15 Symphonies and 15 String Quartets that he is held in the highest esteem and for which he produced some of his greatest works.

Vladimir Ashkenazy has performed and recorded a great deal of Shostakovich over the past twenty years and began his recording of the Symphonies with Symphony No.5 in 1987. He has recently completed the cycle with recordings of Symphonies 13 & 14 and this set also includes a new recording of Symphony No.4.

The release of this set also marks the 70th birthday of Vladimir Ashkenazy in July 2007.