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Episode details

Radio 3,01 Jun 2026,14 mins

SeriesThe Other Shostakoviches

Nikolai Roslavets: Doomed Radical

The Essay

Available for over a year

Chris Addison unravels the story of composer and radical Nikolai Roslavets, who created his own new musical system befitting the Soviet idea - but fell foul of political change. The Other Shostakoviches explores the life and legacy of five lesser-known contemporaries of the most famous Soviet symphonist - who each had their own, very personal and turbulent relationship with the authorities. Authored by writer, satirist and lover of Russian classical music Chris Addison, the series features contributions from musicologist and expert on Soviet music, Marina Frolova-Walker. Written and presented by Chris Addison Exec Producer: Steven Rajam An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3

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