Shostakovich is my favorite composer. His symphonies are treasures. They take the listener on an emotional rollercoaster ride and they make you think about what he is "saying. Without any question IMHO, no one "gets" Shostakovich like Ashkenazy. He just understands where the music is going and how to get it there. Thankfully, his recordings with different orchestras are very well recorded. If you have trouble finding some of his symphonies by Ashkenazy, then try Bernstein.
I am glad you found Shostakovich. A very conflicted man of unparalleled skill at orchestration.
I am glad you found Shostakovich. A very conflicted man of unparalleled skill at orchestration.