Bands & artists like Dmitri Shostakovich

If you like Dmitri Shostakovich, these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.

New to Dmitri Shostakovich? Start with our listening guide.

Artists to try next

Aram Khachaturian

Aram Khachaturian

Guide

Khachaturian’s symphonic and ballet scores exhibit a vibrant orchestration and dramatic flair reminiscent of Shostakovich’s stylistic approaches.

art music chamber music concerto
Igor Stravinsky

Igor Stravinsky

Guide

Stravinsky’s innovative rhythmic structures and bold orchestration align well with Shostakovich's complex textures and dynamic shifts.

20th-century classical music chamber music opera
Leonard Bernstein

Leonard Bernstein

Guide

Bernstein's ability to fuse classical forms with popular elements creates a rich tapestry of sound that echoes Shostakovich's diverse compositional style.

classical music opera symphony
Benjamin Britten

Benjamin Britten

Guide

Britten’s operatic works and chamber pieces often explore deep emotional landscapes, paralleling the tension and release characteristic of Shostakovich.

classical music opera symphony
Carl Nielsen

Carl Nielsen

Guide

Nielsen’s symphonies feature intricate orchestration and a similar balance of melancholy and exuberance found in Shostakovich's compositions.

opera symphony
Alfred Schnittke

Alfred Schnittke

Guide

Schnittke’s polystylistic approach and exploration of dissonance resonate with the layered textures and emotional contrasts typical of Shostakovich.

20th-century classical music art music opera
Gustav Mahler

Gustav Mahler

Guide

Mahler’s symphonic works encompass vast emotional ranges and intricate orchestration that parallel the dramatic scope found in Shostakovich's symphonies.

chamber music classical music symphony
Antonín Dvořák

Antonín Dvořák

Guide

Dvořák’s incorporation of folk elements into his symphonic writing aligns with the rhythmic vitality and thematic richness evident in Shostakovich's oeuvre.

classical music opera

Common questions

Who sounds like Dmitri Shostakovich?

Artists similar to Dmitri Shostakovich include Aram Khachaturian, Igor Stravinsky, Leonard Bernstein and Benjamin Britten. Each shares elements of Dmitri Shostakovich's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Dmitri Shostakovich?

Dmitri Shostakovich is primarily known for opera, symphony and chamber music. Shostakovich’s compositions layer intricate textures with rhythmic complexity, employing tension and release that pull listeners through dynamic shifts from somber reflection to spirited fervor.

Where should I start if I like Dmitri Shostakovich?

If you enjoy Dmitri Shostakovich, start with Aram Khachaturian — their album "Spartacus / Gayaneh (excerpts)" is a great entry point. Khachaturian’s symphonic and ballet scores exhibit a vibrant orchestration and dramatic flair reminiscent of Shostakovich’s stylistic approaches.