Welcome to Tragic Apotheosis, a website dedicated to Dmitri Shostakovich and his music. This website is intended to provide an overview of the composer's life and work. To navigate, simply click on the links at the left. A quick summary of the information contained on this site may be found below.

For a thorough understanding of Shostakovich and, ultimately, the lasting appeal of his music, it is recommended (but not necessary) that the contents of this website be read in the order described below.

[1] Sociopolitical Background - regarding the society and political regime in and under which Shostakovich lived, and how it influenced him.
[2] Family Background - regarding Shostakovich's early life and his family members, and how they influenced him.
[3] Biography - regarding the composer's life and character.

[4] His Music - regarding his musical style. Includes in-depth commentary on a few of his pieces.
Summary List of Works - an abridged catalogue of compositions.

Bibliography and Further Reading - including sources used in the production of this website, and recommendations of more Shostakovich resources on the web.