Classical CD releases: Shostakovich: Symphony No 11

The London Symphony Orchestra celebrated Mstislav Rostropovich's 75th birthday in lavish style in March, and one of the highlights was this performance of Shostakovich's 11th Symphony. Expansive and rather prolix, it is considered to be one of the more problematic symphonies. Commissioned to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the October Revolution in 1957, it contrasts graphic depictions of the events at the Winter Palace in St Petersburg with sombre reflection on their aftermath, all sustained by themes derived from Russian political and popular songs. But Rostropovich's belief in the power of Shostakovich's invention to make the music more than just a historical illustration, combined with outstanding orchestral playing and a vivid recording, makes it a thrilling and convincing performance.