Shostakovich’s Festive Overture in A Major, Op. 96 was composed in 1954 to celebrate the 37th anniversary of the October Revolution. Written in a remarkably short time, the piece opens with a bold brass fanfare before launching into a fast-paced, energetic main theme. Its bright and celebratory character makes it a popular choice for concert openers and special events.

MAPESU Music's brand new engraving of this work fixed many of the errors of the previous edition and added much needed proper page turns and orchestral cues for all instruments. The overture follows a sonata form-like structure, featuring contrasting themes and rapid, virtuosic passages, particularly in the woodwinds and strings. The middle section introduces a more lyrical melody before building back to the exuberant main theme. The brass and percussion play a crucial role in maintaining the piece’s grandeur and excitement.

With its dazzling orchestration and relentless momentum, Festive Overture is often compared to the overtures of composers like Glinka and Rossini. The work’s uplifting spirit and technical brilliance have made it a staple of orchestral repertoire, frequently performed at celebrations, film scores, and even the Olympics.