OMENA'ALA BU IKE

"Omena'ala Bu Ike" is a vibrant choral concert piece that celebrates the strength and beauty of Igbo tradition. Commissioned for the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) in 2007, the song’s title translates to "Tradition is Strength." It is a thrilling showcase of indigenous musical forms brought into the formal choir setting, moving away from standard liturgical hymns to embrace the energy of village festivals.

The arrangement is highly rhythmic and polyphonic, featuring a soaring tenor solo that calls out over a complex bed of vocal percussion. As the soloist praises the wisdom and artistry of the culture, the choir provides a driving accompaniment, using rhythmic syllables to imitate the sound of native drums and wooden gongs. This creates a dense, percussive texture that gives the piece an unmistakable traditional pulse.

Choirs typically perform this during cultural days, choral competitions, or special concert events rather than during Mass. It demands tight rhythmic precision and independent part-singing, making it a rewarding challenge for the singers and an absolute joy for the audience to experience.