Otito Diri Chineke

When we sing the Gloria, we want the whole church to feel the joy of the angels' song. Dr. Ali-Okoro's "Otito Diri Chineke," part of the Missa Immaculate Conception, captures that exact spirit of exultation. Written entirely in Igbo, it is a vibrant setting of the great hymn of praise, perfect for feast days and festive Sunday Masses.

The piece begins traditionally, with the priest intoning the opening line, "Otito diri Chineke n'elu kachielu" (Glory to God in the highest). From there, the full choir answers with a bright and rhythmic "N'uwa udo diri ndi mmadu" (And on earth peace to people of good will). The vocal parts move together with a steady, driving energy that carries the congregation through the familiar prayers of adoration, thanksgiving, and petition to the Lamb of God.

As the piece builds toward its conclusion, the choir proclaims Christ's holiness and high place with "Kachasi di elu, Gi na Muo Nso." It all resolves into a lively, cascading series of "Amens" that brings the Gloria to a triumphant close. It is the kind of setting that keeps a choir on its toes and leaves the congregation uplifted before the opening prayer.