Brilliantly played, one-disc version by one of the great Russian conductors.

This has long been the standard on period style performances.

If you think the full Messiah can be too much of a good thing, Solti also released a highlights disc that captures all the best parts.

My favorite version of this classic which for years was *the* holiday entertainment. Everything is perfect, and the famous children’s prayer won’t leave you alone for days.

Not really a single work, but a collection of linked cantatas that could not be more joyful. Shows this stern master at his warmest side. Rilling is legendary, this recording uses modern forces.

As usual, Gardiner sets new standards not just for period style performances, but for any performances. Lighter tempos and instrumental textures make the work more sprightly and festive.

Expertly crafted works, primarily designed for religious services, not for the concert hall. They are more “inner” and less presentational.

Hodie is an absolute masterpiece--a rich banquet of moods, orchestral effects and arias celebrating Christmas. And the Fantasia isn’t far behind. Classic recordings of two sadly neglected works, which blow the socks of anyone who hears them.

Saint-Saëns’ work is delicate, refined and very French. It is also is somewhat undramatic, despite its beautiful melodies.

French Baroque classic that has been lost amid all the Messiah recordings…

Okay, so its not the Christmas Oratorio. This small-scale classic is still a charmer, and perfect for bringing in the tykes to love classical music.

One of the Renaissance's greatest composers, Victoria wrote the unforgettable work, O Magnum Mysterium, and later used the material for an entire mass.

Great mix of music by a superstar, very fresh.

Another vintage album featuring one of America's great orchestras.

Great collection of Renaissance Christmas tunes and readings played to absolute perfection.

Every classical musician ever has recorded a Christmas album, few with such good results as this.