NOHUAREN (Sanctus in Bini)

When the Eucharistic Prayer reaches its great acclamation, "Nohuaren" lifts the congregation's voices in a vibrant Edo (Bini) setting of the Sanctus. Composed by Charles Onwubuya for the St. Albert Choir at UNIBEN/UBTH, this piece translates the universal "Holy, Holy, Holy" into a deeply indigenous expression of reverence. The title itself rings out as a powerful declaration of God's holiness, setting a majestic and joyful tone for the altar.

What makes this arrangement so compelling is its rhythmic vitality. The score incorporates traditional percussion parts—udu, emighe, ukuse, and egogo—anchoring the choral harmonies in a driving, celebratory pulse. As the choir sings "Erinmwin vb'agbon vuon n'uyi rue" (Heaven and earth are full of your glory), the music builds a genuine sense of awe. It is a wonderful choice for festive Masses, allowing the choir and the faithful to welcome the Lord with cultural pride and spiritual warmth.