Shostakovich Piano Concerto 2 Analysis -

He wrote the Second Piano Concerto specifically for Maxim’s graduation from the Central Music School. Because it was intended for a young student, the piano writing is remarkably clear and "un-cluttered," lacking the massive, dissonant chords found in his earlier works. Despite Shostakovich later dismissing the piece in letters to friends as having "no redeeming artistic merits," it quickly became one of his most beloved and frequently performed works. Movement I: Allegro (Sonata Form)

Written in 1957 as a 19th-birthday gift for his son, Maxim, this piece stands in stark contrast to the dark, heavy atmosphere of many of his other compositions. Here is a brief musical analysis of this masterpiece. 🎹 Movement I: Allegro shostakovich piano concerto 2 analysis