Patrick Bade
Stalin’s Composers
Summary
The lecture provides insights into Soviet composers’ experiences amid Stalin’s regime, emphasizing figures like Alexander Mosolov, Nikolai Roslavets, and Nikolai Miaskowski. It examines their struggles with shifting cultural norms and political pressures, highlighting Prokofiev’s return to Russia and collaboration with filmmaker Sergei Eisenstein, particularly through the acclaimed score for Alexander Nevsky. The lecture underscores composers’ endeavors to navigate the demands of the regime while preserving artistic integrity amidst the complexities of Soviet cultural policy.
Patrick Bade
Patrick Bade is a historian, writer, and broadcaster. He studied at UCL and the Courtauld Institute of Art. He was a senior lecturer at Christie’s Education for many years and has worked for the Art Fund, Royal Opera House, National Gallery, and V&A. He has published on 19th- and early 20th-century paintings and historical vocal recordings. His latest book is Music Wars: 1937–1945.