Otito diri Chineke

"Otito diri Chineke" is a vibrant Igbo setting of the Gloria, the great hymn of praise sung during the introductory rites of the Mass. Composed by Jude and Evangeline Nwankwo, the piece captures the exultant joy of the heavenly host, inviting the whole congregation to glorify God the Father and Christ the Son.

The arrangement is deeply rooted in Nigerian choral traditions, featuring a lively, rhythmic opening and chorus driven by traditional percussion instruments like the ekwe, igba, and ichaka. The verses explore different musical textures to match the liturgical text. Notably, the third verse ("Nwa nke Nna") shifts into a solemn, a cappella section to reflect on Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world, before accelerating back into a joyful, upbeat tempo for the concluding praises and Amens.

This Gloria is perfect for festive Sunday Masses, solemnities, and major feast days. Its dynamic shifts and engaging rhythms make it a powerful offering for the choir loft, lifting the hearts of the faithful in spirited worship.