"Nesbit has adopted a very original approach, not least in his selection of texts, which means that Nativity is far from being “just another” Christmas piece ... I found much to admire in Nesbit’s score. The writing for the choir is consistently interesting – and very well put across by Joseph Fort’s accomplished choir ... Nesbit deploys both the harp and the horn to excellent effect; neither instrument plays all the time but when they are involved it is unfailingly to add important colour and/or melodic interest. Nativityis a most attractive and imaginative score and I like the originality of Nesbit’s concept. All the performers give of their best and it’s hard to imagine that the work could have received a finer first recording ... The concluding piece, ‘Abowt the fyld thei pyped full right’ is bright, joyful and full of energy. ... Edwards Nesbit’s music is inventive, interesting and accessible; I enjoyed what I heard. More than that, in the works included here, all of which are receiving their premiere recordings, Nesbit displays an original and discerning approach to Christmas music. He is very well served by the performers. Joseph Fort has clearly prepared his choir assiduously for this assignment and they make an excellent impression. The voices are young and fresh, producing a very nice, clear sound. The performances have been very successfully recorded by Paul Baxter. Delphian’s documentation, which includes valuable notes by the composer, is excellent"
John Quinn - MusicWeb International
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