Few composers carry as many contradictions as Dmitri Shostakovich. He could write music of crushing weight and bleak introspection, then turn out a ballet number or a popular song arrangement with a wink and a flourish. Any collection that aims to present him whole has to do justice to both sides. Chandos's eight-CD reissue of Neeme Järvi's recordings with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra does exactly that, and it makes an excellent introduction to the composer for newcomers as well as a rewarding return for those who already know him.

Few violin concertos have been recorded as often as Max Bruch's Violin Concerto No 1 in G minor, Op 26. It is a perennial favourite and has more than once topped Classic FM's Hall of Fame, so any new recording has plenty of competition. The Norwegian violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing's version on Sony Classical, with the Oslo Philharmonic under Gergely Madaras, earns its place.

There is so much to enjoy here. Above all, Betts-Dean draws out the story in every song, just as folk music should. Picture a group of friends gathered round while one of them spins a tale, and you have the spirit of this disc. It is all achieved through a keen ear for tempo and a finely judged use of dynamics, never through over-egging.

Michael Morpurgo's tale of loyalty, first love and the shot-at-dawn soldiers of the Great War is harrowing, humane and, surprisingly, funny. Group Editor Andrew Palmer was among the Harrogate audience on its feet at the end. Before a word is spoken, Tommo Peaceful is already there.

There’s just days to go before Lancaster reverberates to the sounds of one of the country’s biggest city centre music festivals. And even before a single note is played or sung at Lancaster Music Festival, events are taking place to whet the appetite for the main festival which runs from October 8-11.

Mariah Carey, the elusive chanteuse and best-selling female artist of all time, will bring the magic of Christmas to the UK this winter, announcing three spectacular arena shows in Birmingham, London and Manchester.