This volume investigates the historical origins and performance practices of the Christmas carol to restore the original vitality of the genre. The authors, Andrew Parrott and Hugh Keyte, utilize extensive musicological research and historical documentation to challenge modern, sentimentalized interpretations of these works. By providing authentic period settings and scholarly context, the text establishes a framework for historically informed performance of the carol repertoire.

Experts and musicologists frequently cite this work as a definitive reference for historically informed performance of Christmas music. Readers often note the academic rigor and the depth of the historical commentary provided for each setting.