Dmitri Shostakovich was a Russian composer and pianist of the 20th century. He is considered one of the major composers of the Soviet era and is known for his symphonies, concerti, chamber music, operas, and film scores. He wrote 15 symphonies, 15 string quartets, two piano concerti, and a variety of other works. His works often reflect the struggles of the Soviet Union during his lifetime, and he was awarded the Lenin Prize in 1960.