The Greatest Russian Pianists

Birthdate: September 25, 1906

Sun Sign: Libra

Birthplace: Saint Petersburg, Russia

Died: August 9, 1975

Dmitry Shostakovich was a Soviet and Russian pianist and composer. Widely regarded as one of the 20th century's major composers, Shostakovich's music is characterized by ambivalent tonality, elements of the grotesque, and sharp contrasts. He composed 15 symphonies during his lifetime and most of his work came under Joseph Stalin.