Breaking Bread - Solo Viola

The African American Spiritual “Let Us Break Bread Together” has a fascinating history ranging from use by enslaved Africans to call secret meetings, modern usage as a Communion hymn, and words with ancient reference to prayer facing East. Okoye’s Breaking Bread is both thrilling and declamatory, inspired by Bach’s contrapuntal works for solo violin, while building into a powerful full statement of the Spiritual tune. This work was originally composed for solo viola, and the composer later transcribed it for solo violin and solo cello (available separately). The world premiere Breaking Bread may be heard performed by the commisioner Amadi Azikiwe at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cNQUXrYh7Qg

Commissioned by Intersection for Amadi Azikiwe with support from the National Endowment for the Arts