From Harmony

"From Harmony" is a magnificent chorus taken from G.F. Handel’s Ode for St. Cecilia’s Day. Setting the profound words of poet John Dryden, the piece reflects on the creation of the universe through the metaphor of music. It paints a picture of divine order—how the "universal frame began" from heavenly harmony and culminated in the creation of humankind, "the diapason closing full in man."

For Nigerian Catholic choirs, this is a thrilling challenge and a staple for major choral concerts or the Feast of St. Cecilia, the patroness of musicians. Singing Handel in solfa notation allows the choir to master the intricate, weaving polyphony that builds up to those grand, resonant chords. When the voices finally unite on the closing phrases, it leaves both the singers and the listeners in absolute awe of the power of sacred music.