* “A RENAISSANCE CHRISTMAS.” Harwood Early Music...

* “A RENAISSANCE CHRISTMAS.” Harwood Early Music Ensemble, John Nygro, director. Classic Digital 1001 (compact disc). Although it includes some relatively unfamiliar material, this disc is a “Greatest Hits” gathering for the most part --”Es ist ein Rose entsprungen” and Bourees by Praetorius, Costeley’s “Allon, gay bergeres,” Morales’ “O magnum mysterium,” etc. The performances, however, are zesty and discriminating reconsiderations of the repertory, attractive in sound and stylistically assured.