With Stalin bearing down on him, Shostakovich withdrew his monumental Fourth Symphony at the very last minute, consigning it to a drawer for the next 25 years. Mark Wigglesworth tells us why the score was so dangerous, and how the composer’s music changed forever.

This issue includes features on Léo Delibes' Sylvia, Shostakovich's Fourth Symphony, Golden Age string instruments, and composers Schumann and John Kander.

Explore the history of Delibes' Sylvia, why Shostakovich's Fourth Symphony was so dangerous, and discover what makes 'Golden Age' instruments so special.

A true marriage of minds results in an unforgettable concert.

Every element of Krzysztof Warlikowski’s production seems to work in perfect unison.

Nelsons’ triumphant Shostakovich series continues in a blaze of glory.

From Russia with despair: Isserlis and Mustonen’s passions run the Soviet gamut.

Politics and music can and do mix in poles apart symphonic takes.

San Francisco outfit’s admired Shostakovich cycle rides again.

The critics have spoken and the results are in. Here are Limelight’s top recordings from 2018.

The Latvian conductor talks to Limelight about his latest Shostakovich disc with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Limelight's Recording of the Year for 2018.

DG couples the opposite sides of a composer’s polemic.