Nani idi-nma n’ebere (2007) for soprano solo and SATB chorus

Abstract

Nani idi-nma n’ebere (2007) is a choral art music composition in the Igbo language for solo soprano and choir based on the last verse of Psalm 23. It displays a number of musical aesthetic features associated with the Nsukka Choral School (NCS), including percussive vocalisation and ostinato techniques. During the ostinato section, the chorus simulate indigenous Igbo musical instruments in polyrhythmic textures. The piece observes the tonal inflections inherent in Igbo traditional music, which are blended with Western harmonies typical of the First Viennese School. Together these characteristics create a hybrid piece of music that demonstrates the influence of these two different musical cultures.