IPO Famous Fives

Success breeds success. Among Mahler's inspirations was Franz Schubert, whose gift for melody follows Mozart in the great German tradition. Schubert's uplifting Symphony No. 5 is like a dance through a garden in springtime. In contrast, Dmitri Shostakovich looked to Mahler for inspiration in transforming the Russian symphonic tradition. Shostakovich, fearful of his nation's growing extremism, crafted a work of extraordinary impact. Both magnificent and haunting, the exaggerated Soviet themes in Symphony No. 5 drew praise from Russian audiences who were unaware of the work's secret musical critique. Get inspired by these famous fifth symphonies conducted by Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra conductor Victor Yampolsky. Tickets start at $30.