Sanctus

"Sanctus (Mai Tsarki)" is a vibrant Hausa setting of the Holy, Holy, Holy, composed by Obioha Ogbonna. From the very first notes, the piece establishes a bright, rhythmic call to worship, inviting the congregation to join the unending hymn of praise. The opening unison lines, "O mai tsarki mai tsarki, Ubangiji Allah mai runduna" (Holy, holy, holy Lord God of hosts), ring out with clarity and conviction, grounding the choir before expanding into joyful harmonies.

During the Eucharistic Prayer, this setting brings a distinct energy to the Mass. The transition into the "Hossana a cikin samania" (Hosanna in the highest) lifts the spirit of the liturgy, driven by a lively tempo that naturally encourages the faithful to lift their voices. The brief interlude leading into "Mai albarkane wanda yake zuwa" (Blessed is he who comes) offers a moment of gentle reverence before building back up to the final, triumphant Hosanna.

Choirs singing this piece will appreciate how the solfa notation maps out the rhythmic interplay between the voice parts. The steady, pulsing movement of the lower voices supports a soaring soprano melody, creating a sound that is both deeply reverent and full of life. It is a wonderful choice for festive Sunday Masses, bringing the warmth and devotion of Hausa liturgical music directly into the sanctuary.