Christmas is a time when we celebrate long-held traditions: family gatherings, exchanges of presents, snow-covered scenes and images of the baby Jesus lying in a crib surrounded by the adoring shepherds, wise men and Mary and Joseph. Music is a crucial part of this annual festival.

There is no shortage of Christmas carol repertoire recorded by Christ Church Cathedral Choir on the Nimbus label, but in this selection we have decided to bring together music that reflects some different aspects of the season. This is music to lift the spirits and transport the listener into a world of mystery.

The Choir of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford was founded nearly 500 years ago and has a special and distinctive place within the great English choral tradition. Historically, it is set apart from all other collegiate and cathedral choirs since it serves both an Oxford college and a diocese at once, as a unique and celebrated dual foundation. Musically, it has become revered for the vibrancy of its collective sound and its artistic flexibility.

Stephen Darlington is one of the country’s leading choral conductors. He has been Director of Music and Tutor in Music at Christ Church since 1985.