Richard Tognetti is the cover star with a no-holds-barred interview.

The June issue of Limelight magazine will hit the stands on May 16 with an elegant new look, a host of new columns and more classical music reviews than ever before.

To welcome in the new-look Limelight, violinist and Australian Chamber Orchestra frontman Richard Tognetti tells us what he really thinks about music, politics and ten-million-dollar violins. Old Sydney and Melbourne rivalries fire up as we determine which city should rightfully claim the title of the arts capital of Australia. And, ahead of her Australian debut, soprano Deborah Voigt tells how she rose above obesity, alcoholism and depression to make a triumphant return to the stage.

Limelight editor Francis Merson has been working towards a major re-launch for the magazine since he took the reins in June 2010. “Sending to print this totally new version of Limelight, I feel like a composer unveiling a new opus,” he says.

“Apart from the fresh design, we have an elegant portico of new columns – about opera, contemporary music, history and more.”

There’s even a new monthly prize for whoever can solve the  devilishly challenging musical cryptic crossword.

The Reviews section has been boosted to 32 pages, making it a definitive compendium of new releases in Australia, including Editor’s Choices and Limelight’s own exclusive chart tracking the best-selling classical releases in Australia’s specialist stores, many of which slip through the cracks in the crossover-dominated ARIA chart.

In addition, Limelight now reviews live performances nationwide, as well as the most thought-provoking new books about music.

“Limelight has always been dedicated to offering engaging, informed opinion about the things that matter to classical music lovers,” says Merson.

“The all-new Limelight gives readers the chance to get even closer to the music.”

Limelight reveals its stylish new design and compelling new content in the June issue, on sale May 16.