1-13 Chorus: For unto us a child is born

When the Christmas season approaches, choir lofts across Nigeria inevitably echo with the brilliant, running lines of this beloved chorus. Drawn from the prophetic words of Isaiah, "For Unto Us A Child Is Born" captures the sheer joy and breathless anticipation of the Nativity. The music dances with light, passing the joyful news from voice to voice before uniting the entire choir in those massive, triumphant chords declaring the titles of the newborn King: "Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God."

Tackling this piece is a rite of passage for any dedicated chorister. The fast, melismatic runs require serious breath control and crisp articulation, especially during those long, spinning phrases on the word "born." Yet, all the hard work in rehearsal pays off the moment the choir hits the majestic homophonic declarations. It is a thrilling piece to sing, lifting the hearts of the congregation and bringing the majesty of the Christmas mystery vividly to life.