The San Diego Symphony Orchestra, one of America's leading ensembles, has undergone an explosive artistic expansion under its Music and Artistic Director Rafael Payare, transforming its repertoire and forging a distinctive sound. The recent renovation of the Jacobs Music Center – a premier hall and architectural landmark – now lets that artistry be heard in full power, colour and nuance. Launching a new collaboration with Delos, the orchestra recorded Shostakovich's monumental Symphony No. 7 live in the hall. Known as the 'Leningrad' and composed during the city's notorious, brutal siege, the work is emotionally and historically supercharged – and as the first recording made in the venue's new acoustics, it sets the tone for an exciting new partnership.