From atmospheric candlelit carols to the joy and exuberance of Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, critically-acclaimed Warwick-based choir, Armonico Consort, pulls out some Christmas crackers to entertain audiences across the region this December.

Currently celebrating its 25th anniversary season, the renowned choir and period instrument ensemble, under founder/director Christopher Monks, will perform Christmas music that’s part of their DNA.

Making a joyful start to the festive season, the group performs Bach’s Christmas Oratorio at Holy Trinity Church, Leamington Spa (1 December).

The work combines some of Bach’s most virtuosic trumpet writing, flamboyant orchestral music and intensely lyrical melodies.  Playing on instruments of the period, Armonico Consort bring a special insight into the sound world Bach would have known.

Later in the month Armonico sing Carols by Candlelight in Warwick (15 & 19 December, Collegiate Church of St Mary), and in Stratford-Upon-Avon (21 December, Holy Trinity Church) where they are joined by the Stratford Girls’ Chamber Choir.  This perennially sold-out event brings together traditional carols with modern classics and new commissions.

Tickets and details from armonico.org.uk