Piano Concerto No. 2 (Shostakovich)
The Piano Concerto No. 2 in F major, Op. 102, is a composition for piano, orchestra, and solo trumpet by Dmitri Shostakovich. It was composed in 1957 for his son Maxim Shostakovich’s nineteenth birthday, who premiered the work at his graduation from the Moscow Conservatory.
The concerto is considerably lighter in tone compared to many of Shostakovich's other works, known for their more serious and often politically charged themes. It is often perceived as more accessible to a wider audience than some of his more challenging compositions.
The concerto consists of three movements:
-
Allegro: The first movement is characterized by its brisk tempo and bright, almost playful, melodies. It features a prominent role for the solo piano, engaging in a lively dialogue with the orchestra.
-
Andante: The second movement is a lyrical and expressive Andante. This movement is arguably the most well-known section of the concerto, featuring a beautifully simple melody played by the piano, often described as romantic and melancholic.
-
Allegro: The third movement, an Allegro, brings the concerto to a spirited conclusion. It incorporates elements of a toccata, showcasing the virtuosity of the pianist and providing a dynamic and energetic finale. The movement also features a prominent trumpet solo.
The piece is part of the standard repertoire for both student and professional pianists. Its relative accessibility and appealing melodies have made it a popular choice for concerts and recordings. While some critics have dismissed it as less substantial than other Shostakovich works, it remains a beloved and frequently performed piece.