Many of Rodion Shchedrin's compositions are distinguished by deeply Slavonic feeling and thrilling virtuoso displays. Even though Shchedrin has won recognition all over the world for his work, he remains an essentially Russian composer who has not broken off his ties to Russian musical folk traditions and poetry. It is thus not surprising to learn of his profound admiration for his compatriot Shostakovich (Shchedrin writes: He is like a God to me.) The dialogues in this one-movement orchestral piece give expression to this admiration; they describe and offer a musical commentary on the character of Shostakovich's music and of the man himself.