Shostakovich: Rebel and/or conformist? (Or never mix music and politics!)
Dr. Susan Weir
- Region:
- Anywhere
- Notice Period:
- Emergency (maybe less than one week's notice)
- Type:
- Professional
- Fee:
- Paid: £100 plus travel
- Category:
- Uncategorised
- Updated:
- 18th November 2025
- Tagged:
- Russia | Composer | History | Music Appreciation
Shostakovich was a Russian composer who often found himself on the 'wrong' side of the political thinking of the Soviet State. Indeed, he was denounced for the first time in 1936 as 'an enemy of the state' and his music banned on two separate occasions. Furthermore, he sometimes slept in the stairwell of his apartment to protect his family from the trauma of an expected arrest. This enlightening talk will present many aspects of the man and his music to you: the significant challenges he faced both professionally and personally, the punishments he endured and, most importantly, link his conformist and rebellious reactions directly to examples of his remarkable music. Many writers will cite examples of music written with the approval of the State and that written with hidden, coded messages against the State - you can judge for yourself by gaining some understanding of the intriguing duality of his musical works. By doing just that you can add a rewarding depth of appreciation when listening to some of Shostakovich's musical masterpieces and be able to consider Shostakovich's acknowledgement that 'without party guidance I would have displayed more brilliance'.
As with all of Susan's talks there will be a refreshing variety of visual, audio and written information to guide you through the event, always presented with a smile!
Views: 32 | Enquiries: 0About Dr. Susan Weir
Whether for local organisations (such as Adult Education programmes at Keele and Manchester Universities, Burns Nights, or HF Holidays), international bodies (including the American Musicological Society, Wagner at the Millennium, Adelaide, Australia), or national music conferences (such as those organised by the Royal Musicological Association), Susan's presentations are engaging, enlightening, and tailored specifically to meet the needs of each audience.
Following her undergraduate studies at the Royal Northern College of Music, Susan completed her Ph.D. at the University of Manchester. As a result of her postgraduate Master of Education degree, she co-authored a chapter in Teacher Music Differently (ISBN 9781138691988).
Susan's talks incorporate a blend of visual and audio elements, complemented by notes for participants to take away. Audience engagement is often encouraged to enrich the experience. Her genuine passion for music consistently brings enthusiasm and energy to her presentations.
She has a talent for communicating information in a friendly, informal, and accessible manner, ensuring that audiences of all levels of musical knowledge and appreciation leave with valuable insights to enhance their musical understanding.
Audience feedback: As now 'musical' people we feel our limited knowledge has been truly enhanced.
Each evening brings old friends and new discoveries. The only problem is guaranteeing a space in the venue - book early and book often! R.C.
Another brilliant evening. It can't be all bad when every day's a school day is a delight and a joy. A complete novice who keeps on coming back J&J W
Very informative, interesting and enjoyable...a perfect combination N. T.
A really pleasant evening - Susan in top form as usual. T D.
Delightful evening of Christmas music. Our Christmas starts here! M.F.
Absolutely superb as ever. Thoroughly recommend. J. M.
Fabulous evening - interesting, entertaining and enlightening. good fun. Highly recommend A.B.
Excellent as usual! Fourth event in a row - very professional: very informative yet very witty and entertaining. S.B.
A very enjoyable evening - was unsure what I had been invited to, but so glad I came R.D.
Wonderful amusing, educational and entertaining evening. Full of surprises. Brings a whole new meaning to, and understanding of, music. P.C.
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