It was 20 years ago that this writer first heard the music of George Lloyd. It was a BBC Radio broadcast of the Eighth Symphony. I remember the event clearly. Here was this gorgeous, romantic music and no one Knew among collectors had ever heard the name of the composer or a note of his music. Then the great Lyrita recording was released, and this wonderful composer was out of the shadows. Now, 20 years later, we have the final installment in the composer-conducted series of his symphonies. They are now all available. Composed mostly in 1961, the symphony was not orchestrated until several years later. "When I started this work I wanted to write something vivacious, with brilliant colouring and no particular programme; this would be in contrast to my previous occupation with the Proserpine legend that had turned into my Seventh Symphony and had become one of my most deeply felt." Of course, the George Lloyd enthusiast will look forward to this disc. However, the music of George Lloyd, no matter what the composition, offers music that can be enjoyed by a larger public. Lloyd makes his music sing and it does so in magnificent fashion in this lovely new performance.