WA HIA LARE

"Wa Hia Lare" is a bright, inviting Edo hymn that calls the congregation to gather and give thanks to God. The opening words carry the feeling of an open invitation, setting a joyful tone that works beautifully as an entrance hymn or during the offertory procession when the church is full of movement and gratitude.

Unekhoria Stanley O.'s arrangement builds on the natural rhythm of the language. The soprano line leads the call to praise ("nima dogh'Osa"), while the lower voices provide a steady, rhythmic foundation. As the piece moves into the chorus, the text shifts into deep thanksgiving ("Ekponmwen ke uromwen"), acknowledging God's goodness ("Osa ma gbe").

For a choir preparing this piece, the energy should be lively but grounded. It is a song meant to lift the spirits of the people as they walk into the church or bring their gifts to the altar. Keeping the diction crisp on the repeated "u rue se" phrases will help the harmonies ring out clearly across the pews.