AMURU YA. (He is born)

When the Christmas season arrives in our parishes, "Amuru Ya" is one of those joyful Igbo choral pieces that instantly lifts the spirit of the congregation. Composed by Jude Nnam, the title translates to "He is born," and the music carries all the bright, celebratory energy of the Nativity. It is a favorite for Christmas Day Masses, often sung during the Offertory or as a lively Thanksgiving piece when the whole church is rejoicing in the birth of the Savior.

The song's verses beautifully recount the Gospel story of Christmas night. We sing of the angels bringing the good news ("Otito diri Chukwu" — Glory to God), the shepherds trembling in the fields, and the heavenly reassurance to "fear not." The refrain anchors the piece with a triumphant declaration that the Son of God, the Savior of the world, has been born in a humble manger. For a choir, mastering the rhythmic bounce and the bright harmonies makes this piece a true delight to sing, bringing the wonder of Bethlehem right into the choir loft.