This two-part drama is adapted by Nick for BBC Radio 4 from the memoir of Rostislav Dubinsky, first violin of the Borodin Quartet.
In 1953, as Stalin lies in state, four young musicians find themselves catapulted from idealistic students to unwilling cultural ambassadors of the Soviet Union.
For Rostik and his closest friend Valia, every step forward brings new pressures: fame, censorship, KGB minders, and the gnawing question of how far they can compromise without betraying the music they love.
Witty, moving and suspenseful, this is a story of friendship and survival – where every performance is political, and every note could cost everything.
Episode One broadcasts this Sunday 12th of October at 3pm, and Episode Two will broadcast next Sunday 19th of October at the same time.
Both episodes will be available to stream on BBC Sounds from the 12th of October.
