This fifth volume in the Naxos cycle of the complete orchestral works of William Alwyn features the popular Elizabethan Dances, which contrast ancient and modern dance rhythms from the courts of Elizabeth I and Elizabeth II. The atmospheric Symphonic Prelude �The Magic Island� was inspired by Shakespeare�s The Tempest. A perfect evocation of Spring, The Innumerable Dance is a tone poem in all but name. This and the exquisite miniature Aphrodite in Aulis have not been heard for over 70 years, and here receive their first recording. Composed during World War II, the Oboe Concerto expresses the composer�s yearning the peace and beauty of the English countryside.