ACHIEVED IS THE GLORIOUS WORK

When a choir raises its voices to sing "Achieved is the Glorious Work," the atmosphere in the church immediately shifts to one of grand celebration. This magnificent chorus, drawn from Joseph Haydn's famous oratorio The Creation, is a staple for Nigerian choirs during major feast days, Easter Sunday, and special thanksgiving Masses. It captures the sheer joy and majesty of God looking upon His finished work and finding it good.

The lyrics are a direct call to praise: "The Lord beholds it, and is pleas'd." As the piece unfolds, the voice parts weave together in a bright, energetic declaration, urging everyone present to "rejoice in lofty strains." For a choir director, teaching this piece is always a rewarding journey. The lively tempo and the triumphant, overlapping entries of the soprano, alto, tenor, and bass lines require focus, but the result is a massive, unified sound that lifts the hearts of the congregation.

Singing this anthem feels like joining the angels in their original song of praise. It is not just a piece of music; it is an invitation to marvel at the greatness of God's deeds. When it echoes from the choir loft at the end of a long Easter Vigil or crowns a parish harvest thanksgiving, it leaves everyone with a profound sense of awe and a renewed spirit of worship.