Lyra was commissioned by the BBC as part of the composer?s residency at the BBC National Orchestra of Wales. The composition of Lyra was supported by a residency at the Visby International Centre for Composers, Sweden. The first performance was given by Oliver Coates and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales conducted by Jean-Micha?l Lavoie at Hoddinott Hall, Cardiff on 8th September 2011 as part of the Vale of Glamorgan Festival.