Both [Proserpine and Suite moderne] highlight the refined tones of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales in performances perfectly gauged by Rumon Gamba to match the music’s elegant charms…The Symphony’s revised edition, recorded by Chandos in 1990, may be stronger overall…though it would be a poor soul who didn’t’ feel stirred in the 1889 version by Parry’s characteristic mix of serious European purpose and hearty British optimism.

Three most welcome additions to the Parry discography…Especially fascinating here is the original version of the Fourth Symphony…no aficionado should miss the opportunity to get to know this likeable symphony in its initial guise…All this rewarding repertoire is decently served by Rumon Gamba and his combined BBC forces.

Expertly prepared, well performed and of far more than mere footnote value.

Listening ‘blind’ to the imposing opening of the Fourth Symphony, I was convinced that I was dealing with something weighty and Germanic from Hyperion’s Romantic Piano Concerto series, until the music gradually shifted into more Elgarian territory – the finale is second cousin to the Pomp and Circumstance marches, showcasing some superb brass-playing. The short ballet Proserpine is shot through with shards of Ravel and Debussy.

The whole disc is a valuable addition; all pieces are premiere recordings.

This is an important release of premiere recordings in the Parry discography, and the sound quality is fully up to this company’s high standards.