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 ofO come, O come, Emmanuel; through the beautiful 16th-century melodiesLo, how a rose e'er bloomingand theCoventry Carol; to the mighty splendours of later eras as exemplified by J.S. Bach, Vivaldi and Berlioz, with Handel's Hallelujah ChorusfromMessiahreigning supreme. This classic VOX recording featuring the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus conducted by Robert Shaw was originally issued on the 2-LP setNativityin 1976. 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.