Ivan Monighetti - Alexander Knaifel: Blazhenstva

Following on from the critically-acclaimed �Amicta Sole� album, Russian composer Alexander Knaifel presents two strikingly different compositions, inspirationally linked through the figure of Mstislav Rostropovich. Knaifel�s background as a cellist is put to good service in the 18 minute Lamento for solo cello (written 1967, revised 1987). The scope of the instrument�s expressive potential is brought into play from the first furious sounds. Monighetti, who was Rostropovich�s last student at the Moscow Conservatory, rises to the work�s dynamic challenges. �Blazhenstva� in contrast is a radiant meditation on the Sermon on the Mount, for soloists, orchestra and choir, written as a 70th birthday present for Rostropovich in 1996. Monighetti here has a triple role - as pianist, cellist and conductor.