The late conductor, Kurt Masur, had a long relationship with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, dating back to 1987. This recording, made during his tenure as Principal Conductor (2000-2007), highlights the close relationship between Conductor and Orchestra. This release adds to a growing collection of Shostakovich symphonies on the LPO label. Previous recordings featuring Kurt Masur have been praised for their 'emphatic style' and 'serious class.' The most recent Shostakovich release was described by BBC Music Magazine as "the most stunning Shostakovich disc I have heard this year." The 'Leningrad' Symphony is a true monument to one of the darkest times in recent history. It's famous 'Invasion' theme portrays a brooding sense of unease as an enemy approaches. It was written to bolster the people of the besieged city of Leningrad; it's Leningrad premiere in summer 1942 was broadcast through loudspeakers during the siege as an act of defiance. The London Philharmonic Orchestra gave the UK premiere of this Symphony (it's first performance outside Russia) in June 1942, after the score had been smuggled out of occupied Russia to the West on microfilm.