In 1936, Shostakovich’s new opera was slammed by the official Soviet paper Pravda as ‘muddle instead of music’. In Joseph Stalin’s Russia, a review like that could be deadly. Shostakovich knew he had to redeem himself fast. The result was his life-saving Fifth Symphony.

From the intense, militaristic energy of the outer movements to the heartfelt anguish of the Largo, the work is a vibrant mix of styles and shifting moods. There’s even a touch of humour in the second movement, evoking whimsical circus.

The Aurora Orchestra and their founder-conductor Nicholas Collon bring their acclaimed performance style to this beanbag concert. Playing from memory, they breathe fresh life into Shostakovich’s sensational work. Alongside it, experience Abel Selaocoe’s Four Spirits, a work designed to create a powerful sense of connection with its listeners.