Classical music can be cheeky, too

He ultimately became the greatest symphonic voice of the 20th century, but 19-year-old Shostakovich was a “precocious” composer, with his First Symphony causing a sensation. People fought to hear its premiere. It anticipates the characteristics that mark his later creations, too -- it’s cheeky, brash, vigorous, full of rhythmic drive. A wonderfully contrasting voice is Ibert’s charming Concerto, masterfully performed by our renowned flute soloist.