A new box-set of Shostakovich's complete symphonies and concertos conducted by Valery Gergiev with the Mariinsky Theatre Chorus and Orchestra (recorded live in concert at the Salle Pleyel, Paris, in 2013-14) has just been released on DVD and Blu-ray by Arthaus Musik. Each of the symphonies on the new box-set is prefaced by video interviews with Gergiev, interviews which we have been given permission to display below. These are fascinating insights into one of the great symphony cycles of the 20th century from a conductor who has spent a lifetime immersed in Shostakovich's music. Enjoy!

Symphony No 1

Symphony No 2, 'To October'

Symphony No 3, 'The First of May'

Symphony No 4

Symphony No 5

Symphony No 6

Symphony No 7, 'Leningrad'

Symphony No 8

Symphony No 9

Symphony No 10

Symphony No 11, 'The Year 1905'

Symphony No 12, 'The Year 1917'

Symphony No 13, 'Babi Yar'

Symphony No 14

Symphony No 15