The August issue has as its cover story a fascinating feature by on the inherent 'Finnishness' of Sibelius's music by Scandinavian expert Andrew Mellor – the perfect way to celebrate the Finnish composer's 150th anniversary year.

Elsewhere in the issue, Philip Clark talks to Andris Nelsons about why he's the right man to record a complete Shostakovich symphony cycle with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Gavin Dixon hails the music of Unsuk Chin, and the vivacious mezzo-soprano Susan Graham meets with Joshua Kosman to discuss the intricacies of Ravel's luscious score for Shéhérazade.

You'll also find reviews of all the most recent classical releases by our resident panel of critics and a colourful Collection by Jeremy Dibble on the best available recordings of Bax's tone-poem Tintagel. We hope you enjoy it!

The August issue is with subscribers now and on general sale from July 22. Visit our subscriptions page to find out more.