Why is it that, 200 years after his birth, we still don’t quite do Schumann justice? One of the most influential composers held in great esteem by performers, one of the most brilliant of music critics, an artist with a fascinating and ultimately tragic life – and yet he has never caught the public’s imagination in quite the same way as Beethoven, Mozart or his younger friend Brahms.

One great devotee is the cellist Steven Isserlis, who leads our Schumann coverage in this month's Gramophone by arguing passionately that we all misunderstand the composer - as he attempts to pierce the myths around Schumann's life and work.

In this month’s Collection, Rimsky-Korsakov expert Geoffrey Norris evaluates Sheherazade’s extensive discography. Elsewhere in the September issue, David Patrick Stearns talks to the great soprano Jessye Norman in an exclusive interview, Rob Cowan plays tribute to conductor Sir Charles Mackerras, plus Editor's Choice and more than 150 recordings reviewed.  

The September issue also includes a focus on the world of Blu-ray, looking at exciting releases in the new format, recommended players to experience them on – plus pianist Lang Lang’s new 3D recording.

The September issue of Gramophone: available on newsagents - or buy a single issue online. Alternatively, click here to subscribe to Gramophone.