FOR UNTO US A CHILD IS BORN

When the choir folders come out for the Advent and Christmas seasons, few texts carry the same weight of anticipation and joy as Isaiah’s great prophecy. S. S. Fakarau’s setting of "For Unto Us a Child Is Born" takes this monumental scripture and gives it a bright, rhythmic life that feels right at home in a Nigerian choral celebration. The piece opens with a lively, declarative energy, announcing the birth of the Saviour before building into the majestic titles of Christ.

What makes this arrangement particularly engaging for a choir is how it handles the text’s natural momentum. Rather than a slow, ponderous approach, the music moves with an "Allegro" tempo that keeps the singers on their toes. The voices layer and echo the promise that "the government shall be upon his shoulder," creating a sense of gathering strength. When the choir finally arrives at the grand titles—Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace—the harmony opens up beautifully, giving the congregation that soaring, triumphant moment we all wait for during a Christmas concert or a festive Mass.

This is a fantastic choice for a Christmas carol service or as a special anthem during the Christmas Day liturgy. It requires a bit of crisp diction and rhythmic precision from the sopranos and the rest of the parts, but the payoff is immense. It is a joyful, confident proclamation of faith that reminds everyone in the pews exactly why we celebrate the season.