The art of the Christmas carol extends back to the Middle Ages, producing a richly varied tradition that continues to the present day. This programme highlights the evolution of Christmas music: from early monastic carols such as the original plainchant of O come, O come, Emmanuel; through the beautiful 16th-century melodies Lo, how a rose e’er blooming and the Coventry Carol; to the mighty splendours of later eras as exemplified by J.S. Bach, Vivaldi and Berlioz, with Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus from Messiah reigning supreme. This classic VOX recording featuring the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus conducted by Robert Shaw was originally issued on the 2-LP set Nativity in 1976.

The recording was recorded in 1975 and, while being a fine musical celebration of Christmas in its own right, also has a powerfully nostalgic aura for many listeners.

With its grandeur of scale and imaginative programme of substantial pieces by the likes of Bach, Vivaldi, Handel, Brahms and Berlioz, this recording was always a cut above more typical Christmas releases of its time and indeed from later decades.

Robert Shaw was closely linked with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, and his impact on the American music scene was significant. He recorded more than 100 works spanning a broad range of repertoire, and his name became synonymous with excellence in music.

The Elite Recordings for VOX by legendary producers Marc Aubort and Joanna Nickrenz are considered by audiophiles to be amongst the finest sounding examples of orchestral recordings.