"With its huge musical resources - the booklet lists well over 400 musicians spread over an orchestra and three choirs ... the Hallé is particularly well armed to take Christmas by storm ... A pretty spectacular affair which goes for the big effect rather than for seasonal intimacy ... If this sets the scene for Christmas CDs 2016, then we are in for a boisterous time. Which, perhaps, is no bad thing given the trials and tribulations of the year that is so rapidly passing".
"There are several works that I particularly enjoyed and that make a special impression ... As I have come to expect the Hallé choral and orchestral forces under Stephen Bell are in sterling form. This often uplifting and often comforting programme is a wonderful way to help celebrate Christmas".
"Glitzy, studiorecorded instrumentals complement live choral performances from the Hallé's 2014 Christmas celebrations. The singing is hearty if unsubtle: you probably had to be there on the evening".