The August issue of Limelight hits the newsstands today and is, as usual, available from our online store with free postage!

To deconstruct the genius of Bach, to fathom how the cold math of line plotted against line, note riding against note, voices knitted into voices, can translate into sounds often held up as the very pinnacle of Western music could take some kind of genius in itself.

But wrapped up in the mystery of Johann Sebastian Bach is his very familiarity. Philip Clark explains how the Baroque master used maths, physics and the power of God to create music of stunning complexity.

ALSO IN THE MAGAZINE

The Bach Family Business

We take a trip down genealogy lane to discover the roots and branches of the most important musical dynasty in history.

Anna Netrebko The Verdi Sessions

Behind the scenes of soprano Anna Netrebko’s recording sessions for her stunning new CD of Verdi arias.

The Lark’s First Flight

Largely ignored by composer Vaughan Williams, how did The Lark Ascending become such an enduring concert favourite?

Rise and Shine

An audience with the pianist who, almost 20 years after the film Shine, still irritates...