Which period features composers like Poulenc and Shostakovich?

The correct answer highlights the 20th and 21st centuries as the period featuring composers such as Francis Poulenc and Dmitri Shostakovich. Both composers are significant figures in modern classical music, reflecting the diverse musical styles and innovations that emerged during this time.

Poulenc, a member of the French group Les Six, is known for his melodic charm and harmonic techniques that blend neoclassicism with influences from jazz and popular music. His works often exhibit a lightness and wit, contrasting with the heavier, more intense emotions found in other music of the same era.

Shostakovich, on the other hand, is renowned for his powerful symphonies and string quartets, characterized by their political undertones and emotional depth. Living through the tumultuous times of the Soviet Union, Shostakovich's music often reflects both his personal struggles and the broader cultural climate of his time, creating a profound connection with listeners.

This combination of composers represents key developments in 20th-century music, including the exploration of new forms, styles, and the incorporation of broader influences, which make this period particularly rich and diverse in musical history.