TETA Ephesians 5:14

"Teta" (Awake) is a vibrant, rhythmic choral anthem composed by Sir Sam Ojukwu, drawing its text directly from Ephesians 5:14: "Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." The piece is deeply rooted in indigenous Nigerian musical idioms, featuring prominent written parts for traditional instruments like the ogene and xylophone, alongside horns.

The choir mimics these percussive textures through rhythmic, repeating vocal lines. By layering continuous, urgent calls of "teta" (awake) and "bilie" (arise), the voices create a driving energy that propels the music forward. With its complex ostinato patterns, overlapping voice parts, and a soaring soprano solo section, this is a quintessential concert and celebration piece for advanced choirs. It brings the scriptural call to spiritual awakening to life, demanding both precision and spirited expression from the singers in the loft.