“CELEBRATION: CHRISTMAS FANFARES AND CAROLS.” The BBC...

“CELEBRATION: CHRISTMAS FANFARES AND CAROLS.” The BBC Welsh Chorus and the Fanfare Trumpeters of the Welsh Guard, conducted by John Hugh Thomas; Aled Jones, narrator. Nimbus NI 5310. Sort of a secular take on the popular lessons-and-carols format, this disc combines some relatively rare, lovely Welsh carols with traditional favorites--including an ill-advised effort with “De Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy”--and affecting, understated readings also ranging from predictable Dickens and Dylan Thomas to Shakespeare and Laurie Lee. The singing is rich and resonantly recorded, with splendid kick from the trumpeters.