5. Alfred SchnittkeConcerto for Viola and Orchestra

The reason I love Schnittke’s Concerto for Viola and Orchestra, is that it makes you feel like you’re falling into this massive abyss. It’s the end of the world, but it never quite ends. If you put that on in the dark, and you’re lying on your bed; I can’t even explain. You have to do it, you know what I’m talking about? You have these bells, death in every note, but in the most apocalyptic way. Everything’s twirling and spinning and falling. It’s unbelievable, it’s such an extraordinary piece of work.

It’s classical; all use of an orchestra, and Yuri Bashmet is the most remarkable viola player. I believe that Schnittke wrote this piece for him specifically, on his deathbed. I’m pretty sure that’s what happened.