For Unto Us A Child Is Born

When the Christmas season arrives, few texts capture the joy of the Nativity quite like the prophetic words of Isaiah. Jude Nwankwo’s setting of "For Unto Us A Child Is Born" brings this scripture to life with a bright, triumphant energy. The piece opens with a gentle soprano solo, announcing the birth and the gift of the Son, before the full choir enters to declare His royal titles: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.

For a choir, this anthem is a thrilling addition to a Christmas concert or a festive Mass. The music builds beautifully, moving from the majestic opening into cascading, joyful repetitions of "Glory" that bounce between the voice parts. A sweet, ad-libbed section meditating on the name "Emmanuel" reminds the congregation of the core mystery of the season—God is with us.

As the piece drives toward its conclusion, the choir broadens out into a grand, allargando finish, singing a final "Glory to God." It is a piece that demands enthusiastic singing, perfectly matching the celebratory mood of a parish welcoming the newborn King.