Shostakovich dedicated his Seventh Symphony to the defiance shown by the citizens of Leningrad in the face of Nazi totalitarianism. Despite the widespread reassessment that has since taken place regarding the inspirations for his symphonies, the 'Leningrad' symphony remains a highly-potent symbol for the residents of modern-day St Petersburg.

This is the fourth release in Valery Gergiev's Shostakovich symphony cycle, presenting an emotionally charged performance of the Seventh Symphony.