An enticing rarity in the vocal literature, 1861 is a 5-minute work for unaccompanied voice a miniature monodrama, sung a cappella. Okoyes music and dramatic pacing are in tune with Whitmans words about the Civil War erupting soon after Lincolns inauguration. Whitmans opening lines, Armd year! Year of the struggle! No dainty rhymes or sentimental love verses for you, describe both the real world and Whitmans self-referential poetry, and they are the starting blocks for Okoyes powerful setting. 1861 was originally composed for solo Tenor (published separately), and later transposed for solo Contralto.