SANCTUS

Jude Nnam's "Sanctus" brings a bright, driving energy to the Eucharistic acclamation. Marked *Allegro* and driven by a lively polka rhythm, this setting lifts the traditional Latin text into a joyous, rhythmic celebration. It is the kind of piece that wakes up the choir loft and draws the congregation into the great hymn of praise just before the Eucharistic Prayer begins.

The arrangement uses layered vocal entries, especially in the "Hossana in excelsis" sections, where the parts echo and build on one another. Singing this requires the choir to stay crisp and attentive to the beat, ensuring the Latin syllables bounce lightly rather than dragging. When the sopranos soar on the final "Hossana," it creates a wonderful moment of reverence mixed with genuine excitement.

Choirmasters will want to spend time on the syncopated entries during the "Hossana" to keep the momentum steady. The transition into the "Benedictus qui venit" offers a brief, grounded moment before the choir launches back into the high-spirited finale. It is a fantastic choice for festive Sunday Masses or feast days when the liturgy calls for an extra burst of joy.