- Dimitri Shostakovich (1906-1975), a towering figure in 20th-century classical music, exerted a profound influence on countless composers. His innovative blend of traditional Russian elements with avant-garde techniques pushed musical boundaries and inspired generations. Composers after him were deeply influenced by Shostakovich's emotional depth and use of irony, incorporating similar themes into their work.

- This CD is the first of a series dedicated to pupils of Shostakovich: Alemdar Karamanov (1934-2007), German Galynin (1922-1966) and Boris Tchaikovsky (1925-1996). All three found their own individual style, but each found inspiration in the genius of that towering figure of 20-th century Russia: Dimitri Shostakovich.

- Also included are several piano works by Shostakovich himself, among which the popular Three Fantastic Dances.

- “The young pianist Fernanda Damiano is a real marvel; she has a very remarkable pianism. She is destined, I am sure, to a very brilliant career” (Aldo Ciccolini). Fernanda Damiano, born in 1995, is the winner of several international piano competitions. Recently she worked with Enrico Pace at the famous Imola Piano Academy. Her previous recording for Brilliant Classics with piano sonatas by Galuppi won several 5-star reviews.