Breaking Bread

The African American Spiritual “Let Us Break Bread Together” has a fascinating history ranging from use by enslaved Africans to call secret meetings, to 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 (each available separately). Hear Matt Haimovitz's recording at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=peHA_yyhYy0&list=RDpeHA_yyhYy0&start_radio=1

The African American Spiritual “Let Us Break Bread Together” has a fascinating history ranging from use by enslaved Africans to call secret meetings, to 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 (each available separately).

The African American Spiritual “Let Us Break Bread Together” has a fascinating history ranging from use by enslaved Africans to call secret meetings, to 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 (each available separately).