Please note: BSO Sessions episodes begin with a performance premiere, followed by on-demand access through June 2021.

Associate Conductor Nicholas Hersh and Assistant Conductor Jonathan Rush introduce the inspirations behind hidden treasures of orchestral music, none of which have ever before been performed by the BSO. This includes the origin story of Shostakovich’s String Quartet No. 8 in C Minor, op. 110, here arranged for string orchestra. Arguably the composer’s best-known contribution to the quartet repertoire, this piece is often described as both a dedication to “the victims of fascism and war” as well as Shostakovich’s requiem to himself.

FLORENCE PRICE String Quartet No. 2 in A Minor
II. Andante cantabile
III. Juba (Allegro)
FINE Serious Song, A Lament for String Orchestra
SHOSTAKOVICH (arr. BARSHAI) Chamber Symphony for String Orchestra in C Minor, op. 110a