Shostakovich Centre, Paris, 31 March 2009

The Russian literary scholar Irina Antonovna Shostakovich (b. 1934) was the composer's third wife. They married in 1962.

[Interview translated from the Russian]

How would you explain the development of a friendship and creative relationship between Britten and Shostakovich?

It seems to me that it began with a very friendly attitude on the part of Britten to Dmitri Dmitrievich and to his music. This was followed by a mutual interest in their creative work, in each other's music.

At what point did Shostakovich first become aware of Britten's music?

I cannot say now, but I know that in 1962 when we came for the rehearsals of Katerina Izmailova at Covent Garden we were informed that Britten had been very helpful in staging this opera and that he once attended a rehearsal. Maybe somehow via Lord Harewood he assisted in putting this opera on the stage.

Which Britten works did Shostakovich mention in conversation?

Dmitri Dmitrievich knew many works by Britten. He was interested in them and listened to them as soon as they appeared. He would try to listen to every new work, as he was interested in Britten's musical ideas. Dmitri Dmitrievich very much appreciated War Requiem. I also remember that the chamber opera from England came to Moscow and gave Britten's operas at the Stanislavsky Theatre and we attended all their performances.

Shostakovich clearly liked and respected Britten as a person.

Britten was very attractive in his modesty, kindness and full-heartedness.

How far was Shostakovich aware of the difficulties Britten faced in his life on account of his homosexuality?

I cannot answer that. I think that Dmitri Dmitrievich was not interested in it. It was something obviously we did know, but when people like each other and have a good attitude to each other they understand each other more easily.