In 1959, American composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein (08.25.1918-14.10.1990) visited the Soviet Union. His interpretation of Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony is, in the eyes (and of course ears) of some, controversial.

Nonetheless, Bernstein’s performance received a thunderous ovation, and Shostakovich came on stage to congratulate Bernstein and the New York Philharmonic.