A concert commemorating the 120th anniversary of Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich's birth captivated audiences at Beijing Concert Hall on June 6, as German conductor Aurel Dawidiuk joined pianist Song Siheng and the China National Symphony Orchestra in a program celebrating the richness and evolution of classical Russian music.

The evening opened with Glinka's vibrant Ruslan and Lyudmila Overture. Free of excessive ornamentation, the performance highlighted the work's bright energy and expansive Russian character, with warm strings, clear melodic lines and luminous brass textures.

Shostakovich's Piano Concerto No 1 in C Minor followed, showcasing the composer's youthful wit and originality. Chinese pianist Song delivered a finely nuanced interpretation, balancing sparkling virtuosity with introspective lyricism. Trumpeter Chen Guang contributed a crystalline tone, engaging in lively musical dialogue with the piano while the orchestra provided a rich, supportive backdrop.

Responding to enthusiastic applause, Song returned to the stage for three encore pieces — Mozart's Turkish March, as well as his own compositions.

The second half featured Tchaikovsky's Symphony No 5 in E Minor, a sweeping journey from darkness and uncertainty to triumph and renewal. Under Dawidiuk's direction, the orchestra delivered an emotional and dramatic performance, with expressive strings and powerful brass bringing the symphony's evolving themes vividly to life.