John Rutter (b.1945) is one of England’s best known composers of choral literature. While his choral works, including "Te Deum," "Magnificat," and "Requiem," are the most familiar, he has also written numerous instrumental works. Rutter composed the "Nativity Carol" for SATB chorus and organ in 1963, and it was published in 1967 as part of a collection entitled Carols for Two Choirs. Although the title suggests a seasonal work, its musical richness lends itself favorably for performance at any time of the year.