SANCTUS

When the preface concludes and the congregation kneels for the Eucharistic Prayer, the choir leads the faithful into this great hymn of adoration. Cyprian C. Nwosu’s setting of the "Sanctus" brings a steady, reverent majesty to these ancient Latin words. The piece opens with a solemn declaration of God’s holiness before lifting into the bright, overlapping voices of the "Hosanna in excelsis."

Written entirely in tonic sol-fa, this arrangement is a staple style for many Nigerian Catholic choirs. The voices trade phrases beautifully, especially as the lower voices echo the opening calls, building a sense of the whole company of heaven joining the song. It is a wonderful choice for feast days and solemn Masses, guiding the parish into the most sacred mystery of the liturgy.