They’’ve been playing together since 1978, and now Bird and Rothert have produced a Christmas CD full of lovely melodies, gentle singing and exquisite musicianship. On most of the selections, Rothert sings and plays guitar and Bird plays violin/fiddle. Three-time winner of the Indiana State Fair’s Old time Fiddler’s Competition, Bird also plays mandolin, guitar, penny whistle, bodhran and jaw-harp. The pair is joined by percussionist Peter Young.

While Christmas With Arvel & Fred may not break new holiday ground, who on earth would want it to? The easy-going renditions are just right for soothing jangled nerves during the busiest time of the year, and for reminding us about the real reasons for celebrating the season. A Fort Wayne native, Rothert has a smooth, deep voice; when joined with Bird’s string playing, it transports the listener to a world of quiet evenings around the fireside, even if you live in an apartment and have to use a 100-watt bulb to simulate the fire.

Selections include “Walking in a Winter Wonderland,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Blue Christmas,” “Oh Holy Night” and “Silent Night.” Listen, and have yourself a merry little Christmas.