Since 1989 The Cardinall's Musick, directed by Andrew Carwood, has gained a reputation in bringing neglected English Renaissance masterworks to a wider public, and they have recorded a number of CDs to critical acclaim. "Propers" is the work of William Byrd (1535 to 1623), early Latin Christmas sacred music. There are 15 movements here, with names like "Ave regina caelorum," "O saluteris hostia," "Alleluya, Confitemini Domino" and "O admirabile commertium." "Propers for the Nativity" is a series designed for a Christmas church service, with music for the Offertory, Communion, etc. These are powerful, calming, soaring chants that could be easily mistaken for the songs of angels, back in 1607 or 2002!