Alexander Lazarevich Lokshin (1920–1987) was a Russian composer whose distinct musical voice often lay under the radar of the mainstream musical world, partly due to his idiosyncratic style and partly because he fell out of favor with the Soviet authorities, hindering his exposure both at home and abroad. Lokshin was a composer with profound depth, marked by an intense personal language that absorbed elements from different traditions, ranging from Russian folklore to Western European music. His output, though not vast, is characterized by its emotional intensity and structural sophistication, with an affinity for vocal and symphonic forms.

Lokshin's most notable works often feature stark contrasts and a lyrical expressiveness, as evidenced in compositions such as "Les Fleurs du mal" — inspired by the poetry of Charles Baudelaire — and his various symphonies, which blend the composer's personal turmoil with broader, universal themes. Despite the initial obscurity of his works during his lifetime, posthumous releases like "Symphony No. 4, 'Sinfonia Stretta'" / "Three Scenes From Goethe's Faust," as well as "Symphonies Nos. 5, 9, 11," have helped to resurrect Lokshin's reputation, casting light on the emotional and compositional complexity of his music. His string quartets, laden with intricate textures and evocative harmonies, stand as a testament to his craft, reflecting both his classical roots and his quest for individual expression. The collection "Songs of Margaret & Symphonies Nos. 7, 10" further cements his status as a significant, if underrecognized, composer who poured his soul into the fabric of his compositions, earning him the retrospective title encapsulated in the album "Russian Soul."

Genres

Russian Contemporary Classical

Latest Release

Russian Soul

Alexander Lokshin

Album - 27 Tracks - Released July 2, 2021