We expect virtuosity from the BBC Singers, but this performance leaves one gaping in admiration, as, indeed, do they all. It is impossible to imagine a more favourable way of experiencing this enthralling music than by listening to this superbly engineering and presented release.

The ensemble is excellent, as one might expect - as is intonation and communication.

an eclectic collection, with accomplished versions of pieces by Bach, Tchaikovsky and Saint-Saens interspersed with folksier material such as "Noël Nouvelet", featuring an exquisite interplay of quiet clarity between the countertenors and lower registers.

The familiar polish and sweet vocal blend of the King’s Singers are applied to a nicely varied programme. There are new slants on traditional favourites such as The 12 Days of Christmas, God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen and Jingle Bells, together with rarities including a jolly Sérénade d’hiver by Saint-Saëns.