Ottorino Respighi was one of the great orchestral colorists of the 20th century, famous for symphonic poems, including Pines of Rome. His Laud to the Nativity, based on a 13th century poem, is a beautiful pastoral cantata depicting the birth of Jesus. Set for chorus with vocal soloists, a small wind ensemble, and piano (four hands), the work uses madrigals and plainchant to evoke an ancient simplicity while incorporating vivid modern harmonies and beautiful orchestral colors.