Last Revised/Updated December 7th, 2018

Once again, greetings to all new readers. If you are unfamiliar with Libera, you may wish to go to Part One (link below) of this Timeline for an overview and history of the group, including the story of its beginnings.

Please note: new material is added at the end of this post, rather than at the beginning,

Once again I state that I'm a writer, not a techie, so please forgive the occasional odd configuration or spacing. I welcome corrections, suggestions and comments at:

Libera performing "From a Distance" for the 2017 New Year's Eve broadcast of the Songs of Praise "Big Sing."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eBzTyiPMfo&feature=share

(From a Distance/solo by Merlin Brouwer/TheBig Sing/12-31-17/3:49)

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For Part One (introduction to Libera and to the Timeline, extensive overview & 1981-2007), please go to: http://liberatimeline.blogspot.com/

For Part Two (2008-2009) http://liberatimeline2.blogspot.com/

For Part Three (2010) http://liberatimeline3.blogspot.com/

For Part Four (2011)http://liberatimeline4.blogspot.com/

For Part Five (2012)http://liberatimeline5.blogspot.com/

For Part Six (January-May 2013):http://libera-timeline-6.blogspot.com/

For Part 6A (May-December 2013)http://libera-historicaltimeline6a.blogspot.com/

For Part Seven (January-July 2014)http://libera-historicaltimelinepart7.blogspot.com

For Part 7A (August-November 2014)http://libera-historical-timelinepart7a.blogspot.com

For Part 7B (December 2014)http://libera-historical-timeline-part7b.blogspot.com

For Part 8 (January-March 2015)https://lib-erahistorical-timeline-part-eight.blogspot.com

For Part 8A (January-March, 2015)http://liberahistorical-timeline-part-8-a.blogspot.com

For Part 8B (August-December,2015)http://liberahistoricaltimelinepart8b.blogspot.com/

For Part 9 (January-July, 2016)http://liberahistoricaltimeline-part-9.blogspot.com/

For Part 9A (July through December, 2015)http://lib-erahistorical-timelinepart9a.blogspot.com/

For Part 10 (January 1st, 2017 August 11th, 2017) https://li-berahistoricalt-imelinepart1a.blogspot.com/

For Part 10A (August 12^th to December 31^st, 2017) https://lib-era-historic-altimelinepart10a.blogspot.com/

For Part 11A https://li-berahistoricaltime-line11a.blogspot.com/

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

(Introduction)
(How to Identify Libera Singers Past & Present)
(Useful sites and Translation Assistance)
(Libera Timeline Reprise: Why Do Boys Leave Libera?
(Libera Footnote: The Legacy of Alex, Sam and Ben

(Libera Footnote: Class of 2007—Ed Day/Night); Liam Connery; Benedict Philipp; Josh Madine, Tom Cully/Jamie Isaac)
(China Blog, Part One)
(Libera Footnote: Ben Crawley and The Snow Queen)
(Fab Chart Awards 2018)
(Libera Footnote: Class of 2007—Sam Leggett, Michael Horncastle, Callum Payne, Tiarnán Branson)
(Libera Flashback: "Voca Me)
(China Blog, Part Two)
(CHINA VIDEOS)
(USA Tour in the works)
(China Blog: Part Three)
ELY CATHEDRAL CONCERT

(Concert Reviews)
(New CD Beyond Announced)
(Official US Tour Poster)
(Fall Japan Tour Announced)
USA TOUR 2018
(US Tour Reviews and Photos)
(Beyond CD Track List and Samples Available)
(More information on Beyond)
(Westminster Cathedral Concert Announced)
(New Beyond Promotional Video)
(Beyond Release and Reviews)
(Christmas Concert Announced)
WESTMINSTER CATHEDRAL CONCERT
(Concert Reviews)

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This is the 11th year of the Libera Historical Timeline, which is now read in over 90 countries (top dozen last year: the US, UK, Canada, Japan, South Korea, The Netherlands, Hungary, Germany, Indonesia, Russia and Slovakia, with South Africa and China trending).

For all those who would like to know more about the individual boys of Libera, I continue to recommend the wonderful Libera Passion site, stewarded by Patrick FandeLok and Quentin (aka The Furby). This site (in French, but fairly easy for non-Francophones to decipher) maintains an up-to-date photo, media, tour and concert record of:

• "Membres Réguliers" (Current Members) — Boys who have participated in the most recent concert or tour.
• "Miniboys" — This is Libera lingo for young singers in training. Names are not paired with faces unless the boys have been positively identified by photo.
• "Absents du Dernier Concert" — Singers who have performed regularly with the group, but were absent from the previous concert or tour.
• "Anciens Membres" — Former Libera singers, going back to the 1980s, when the group appeared as the St. Philip's Boys' Choir, and then, (1987-1998), as "Angel Voices." (NOTE: This section, as of early 2018, was expanding to include names and some rare photos of early members, as well as of miniboys who never became Libera singers or were with the group only briefly.)
• "Staff" — Staff members (often Libera alumni) and their roles with the group.
• "Liens" — Family groupings of brothers or cousins who have been members of Libera.

If a name appears in blue, you can click on it to see additional photos and statistics on that singer. The site also hosts an active fan forum (in French) with reviews, photos, and discussions.
Go to: http://libera-passion.exprimetoi.net/t1110-apercu-des-membres-actuels-maj-decembre-2016#24512

The Libera Passion Site also hosts a wonderful set of databases. This is primarily the ongoing work of "The Furby," long-time co-host of the site, and has been a marvelous boon to Libera fans.

(Discography of St. Philip's Boys' Choir and Angel Voices releases/1987-1999):
http://libera-passion.exprimetoi.net/t1272-la-discographie-st-philip-s-boy-choir-angel-voices#26744

(Discography of official Libera releases/1999-present):
http://libera-passion.exprimetoi.net/t1273-la-discographie-libera#26746

(Discography of alternative releases for St. Philip's/Angel Voices/Libera/1988-present):
http://libera-passion.exprimetoi.net/t1279-les-editions-alternatives#26837

(Alphabetical listing of all songs sung by St. Philip’s/Angel Voices/Libera, with links to videos for each):
http://libera-passion.exprimetoi.net/t1280-les-morceaux-interpretes-par-le-st-philip-s-boy-choir-angel-voices-libera#26871

(Listing by year and description of all Libera Tours and Concerts)

http://libera-passion.exprimetoi.net/t1329-les-concerts-et-sorties-prestations-live-de-libera-2000-present

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Another fine source of Libera information is the Libera Dreams Discussion Forum http://www.forum.libera-dreams.com/, where, for instance, Jay_S contributed the following :

I recently visited the Libera website https://libera.org.uk/music/hope/ and I was very happy to see the lyrics to the songs on Hope. I hadn't noticed this feature before now. Click the little blue page icon to the right of the songs and the lyrics show up!

I have visited the [German site hosted by mawi]] http://www.libera-songs.de/ for lyrics of previous albums. I think this site is [excellent] regarding the information about songs. It not only provides the lyrics, but also indicates which parts are sung by soloists and which by the choir. Additionally there is data about different versions of the song (authors, recording/first publishing year, soloist, lineup and so on) plus in many cases some interesting remarks about the song or its background (this is in German only).—Jay S.

Translation Assistance

The excellence of the non-English sites, combined with requests from readers for help in translation, led to this small tutorial:

No translation needed :Mathias Montoro, Ben Bywater (top), Oliver Mycka, A slightly squashed Romeo Tesei, Alessandro-Mackinnon-Botti and Joseph Cranitch chill during the Summer 2017 tour of the US.

Much of the information on the Libera Passion site and Die Deutsche Libera Songseite http://www.libera-songs.de/ is fairly accessible because of its context (lists of songs, videos, singers, etc. ).

However, for more clarity, especially on reviews, comments, etc., go to "Google Translate," https://translate.google.com/. There you'll see a blank to enter the material you want translated, and buttons to indicate (L) the original language and (R) the language you want to read.

(See above screenshot from Libera Passion for an example of the more accessible content; it details video appearances by Alessandro Mackinnon-Botti, translated from French to English. Note how similar the two pages are.)

Sometimes the translations of more complicated paragraphs are a little off, but one can generally figure them out, as with the second screenshot here, the opening paragraph of Die Deutsche Libera Songseite's introduction to Libera:

TIMELINE REPRISE: WHY DO BOYS LEAVE LIBERA?

This time of year is traditionally a slow one for Libera fans. This January-May, after an exceptionally busy 2017 schedule of tours and concerts, would probably be such a time. These news hiatuses tend to signal an opportunity for "hidden" projects, which may include small "private" performances, learning new music, recording new CDs or DVDs and/or recording for soundtracks or backing up other artists. To pass the time, I revived a "Libera Footnote" that first appeared in Part Two of this Timeline in 2009.

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Why Do Boys Leave Libera?

A recurring phenomenon among Libera fans is that some people discover the group, fall in love with it, but somehow choose to ignore the fact that it is by nature an ever-changing entity. Voices change, family plans change, interests change. Older singers leave, and new miniboys replace them; all these are facts of life in a boys' singing group.

Some fans, however, seem to want to freeze time, and plaintive queries such as: "Where's so-and-so? Tell him to him to come back/stay with the group!" or "Who are all these new boys? I can't tell them apart!"* frequently appear on forums and YouTube comment sections.

*For these people, I recommend :
http://libera-passion.exprimetoi.net/t1110-apercu-des-membres-actuels-maj-decembre-2016#24512

Libera members and miniboys (green numbers) as of December 2017.

"Where's Josh?" is one of the most frequent of queries. Joshua Madine (2005-present staff), seen (top) with the equally popular Tom Cully in the 2007 PBS special Angel Voices: Libera in Concert (which introduced Libera to its first worldwide audience), and at right, all grown up. Josh continued with his musical career, serving as keyboard accompanist for Libera, and recording and performing with the vocal group Vox (see Libera Footnote below).

When boys leave Libera, there is always a certain amount of lamenting and speculation among their devoted fans as to why. There are various reasons:

1. Voice change; an exquisite treble does not always mature into an adult voice that its owner considers suitable for singing in public; occasionally voice change for a featured soloist can prove a letdown after heady years in the spotlight, causing some boys to quickly move on to other pursuits.

2. Desire to move into different areas of music or performing, as with soloist Tom Cully (2002-2010), who even changed his performing name to get away from Libera attention, or Ben Crawley (1999-2006) who records and performs under the name of "Ben See."

3. Other growing interests that take precedence: Orlando Wolcholsky (2011), for instance, was also involved in several other high-powered performing situations, and only remained with Libera for a brief time.

4. Conflicts with schooling, as with beloved little soloist "Mini-James" Mordaunt (2008-2011) when he began secondary school, or up-and-comer Michael Ustynovych-Repa (2010-2013) when he received a scholarship to a more distant school.

5. Families relocating (as with popular soloist Freddie Ingles [2008-2011])

6. The stress of traveling and performing before large audiences, often in foreign countries, with jet lag often a factor.

Alfie Smart, who left the performing group in 2010 after only two years, reacts during an interview in Japan when asked about his solo part in that night's concert. His younger brother Bertie joined Libera onstage in 2012, left a year later, and returned in 2014, departing for good in 2015.

Assuming that a boy enters the group as a miniboy (as most do) at age seven, the "shelf life" for membership in the performing/touring group is five to seven years at most, though there have been notable exceptions, as with the 2013 Christmas in Ireland DVD, when the ages of the singers ranged from eight to eighteen, and the 2014 Libera in America DVD, where Sam Leggett was the oldest singer at almost 20 years of age.

7. Difficulty in maintaining and coordinating the Libera rehearsal and performing schedule with family life and other activities.

Libera membership demands considerable unpaid time—including that spent commuting to rehearsals—and effort from the boys and their families, and occasionally this may also be a factor in their leaving.

Some miniboys have not been able to master the degree of musical skill required of Libera singers, or have had difficulty with the degree of self-discipline necessary to rehearse and perform on a professional level. Some parents decide that they prefer that their children not be public figures with a level of visibility that often results in a somewhat unnerving degree of fan adulation and, like it or not, a prominent online presence. Some boys decide (on their own or with their families) to perform only in London- or UK-based concerts, not to appear in videos, or to sing only with the St. Philip’s Choir rather than continuing to appear onstage.

Tired boys on tour crowd a couch in yet another city (Los Angeles) for yet another photo-op, 2009.

As mentioned, by its very nature, this is an ever-changing group, and the attrition rate is surprisingly small for a comparable group of its size.

An unforeseen situation arose in 2012, when the group contained seven singers over 14, most with changed voices, all beloved of fans from the 2007 Angel Voices: Libera in Concert broadcast DVD. As younger trebles' voices were also changing, however, a sorting-out process was needed. The roster for that spring's Singapore-Japan tour surprised fans by including only boys 14 years old or under, with the reason given that all the older boys were studying for exams.

By the summer, however, only one or two of the older boys had returned to singing; one had joined the production staff, and the others were busy on non-Libera projects. Some had begun to assist in other ways, and to return only for special concerts, as with the 2013 and 2015 PBS DVD recordings.

Sammy Moriarty, Sam Leggett, Henry Barrington, Eoghan McCarthy and Matthew Rangel-Alvares were among the older boys who rejoined Libera in 2015 for the Libera in America DVD

By 2013, it had been recognized that older boys needed a purposeful way to continue in the Libera sphere of activities, and so more special events and opportunities were added to the St. Philip's Choir schedule. In 2013, ten former Libera singers were part of the St. Philip's Choir, and joined with them and the Libera group in a major performance of Mozart's Requiem. This, as well as other classical works and various seasonal offerings, was repeated in later years, including 2017.

As time went on, Robert Prizeman began writing more "intermediate" parts, suited to boys whose voices were gradually lowering, rather than breaking suddenly. This created an even richer sound than the combination of mostly high trebles and singers with changed voices. It also gave the group the opportunity to retain highly trained singers for a longer time.

By the end of the 2010s, boys had begun to stress in interviews that: "You can be a part of the group for as long as you like." Robert Prizeman reinforced this in a 2013 interview:

"The boys don't actually have to leave anymore, because there are now different manifestations of the group, and they can carry on singing with the group as tenors and basses in the future. The stage shows that we take around the world, and the recordings we do, are obviously going to be centered around the boys from the core group aged 7-8 through 14. The older boys don't, as I said, have to leave. Obviously all sorts of different circumstances prevail, interests change, but an awful lot of them stay around, and we combine in different ways to make music."

End of Why Do Boys Leave Libera?

LIBERA FOOTNOTE: THE LEGACY OF ALEX, SAM, AND BEN

With so many boys passing through Libera, it's only natural that there should be some duplication of first names. Interestingly enough, in the time since individual boys began to be identified by name to the public (around 1987, with Angel Voices), there have been few or no boys with stalwart English names like William, Philip, Arthur, Peter, Richard, Robert, John, Charles or Edward, and plenty of unusual ones, like Neo and Tadgh.

There are three names, however, that have displayed marvelous staying power.

The first, "Alex," began its run in 2005, when Alex Leggett joined the group. In 2013, as an older teen, he shared the stage with then-eight-year-old Alex Gula (2012-present), who was soon joined by Alex Montoro (2012-present). Little Alexandre Menuet began performing with the group in 2016. To add to the confusion, Alessandro Mackinnon-Botti (2002-present) was in the mix as well.

Alex Leggett

Alex Gula

Alex Montoro

Alexandre Menuet

Alessandro Mackinnon-Botti

The longest-lived name so far in the group is "Sam." Sam ("Spam") Coates joined the group around 1996, was an active member until around 2005, and has continued as production manager ever since. Samir Abouelfaid ("Sam AB") sang through the early 2000s, and Sam "Sleg" Leggett joined in 2004.

Four Sams in Japan

Sam Wiggin

Samuel-Francis Collins

Samuel ("Sammy") Moriarty (2008-2014) and Sam Wiggin (2012-2016) carried on the tradition, joined by the youngest of the four Collins brothers, Samuel-Francis (2014-present).

The "Benjamin/Benedict/Ben" legacy, also into its third decade, was a colorful example of "code naming.""Mini-Ben" (Benedict) Philipp (2006-2014), was most probably given his nickname under the influence of the "Mini-Me" character in the hilarious Austin Powers films of the 1990s-2000s. This was to distinguish him from then-staff member "Big Ben" Crawley (1998-2006), who was 6'5".
.

"Big Ben" Crawley

"Mini-Ben" Philipp

"Nano-Ben" Fairman

"Pico-Ben" Bywater

When little Ben Fairman showed up in 2006, with the other two still very much a part of Libera, he declined to become "Mini-Mini-Ben," or "Micro-Ben," and opted for (or was assigned) the nickname "Nano-Ben." Benedict Bywater (2014-present) became "Pico-Ben" after joining the touring group. Miniboy Benjamin Wevill (2017-), as of early 2018, had not yet earned his place in the tradition.

Ben Weville

Carrying on this short-lived tradition, when James Mordaunt and James Threadgill joined the group in 2009, the (much) smaller of the two (Mordaunt) became "Mini-James." Eventually the custom of applying the term to individuals was pretty much dropped, and all newbies began to be referred to as "miniboys." A brief exception was made in 2016, when the Libera careers of Cassius O'Connell-White (2009-2016) and a very tiny blond miniboy named Cassius Collard (2016-present) intersected briefly, and the temptation for "Mini-Cassius" became irresistible.

Cassius O' Connell-White in 2010

END OF LIBERA FOOTNOTE

ANOTHER LIBERA FOOTNOTE: THE CLASS OF 2007

For many Libera fans, their first exposure to the group came with the proliferation on YouTube of videos from the group's 2007 concert DVD Angel Voices: Libera in Concert, filmed in Leiden, Holland for the United States' Public Broadcasting System (PBS).

The soloists in that accomplished group of just 19 singers were the extraordinary group of five boys shown here:


Left to Right: Ed Day, Benedict Philipp, Tom Cully, Josh Madine and Liam Connery

Here, in a period of Libera inactivity, we catch up with what these talented singers are doing now:

1. ED DAY (2004-2009)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-2-6cb9j-I (Stay With Me/solo by Ed Day/descant by Liam Connery/2007/3:43)

Sometime after leaving the group in 2009, however, young Edward found his mojo, changing his stage name to Ed Night, and striking out in the direction of stand-up comedy, quickly making a name for himself in comedy clubs and venues like the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

In 2018, he displayed the same calm blue-eyed stare (though the near-unmanageable mop of red hair had been dyed and tamed);

his articulate comedy garnered comments like the one below:

He also learned to do interviews.

http://www.chortle.co.uk/review/2017/08/27/37722/ed_night%3A_anthem_for_doomed_youth

Ed displays warm relatability in his voice-over work; in February 2018 he began a podcast series with a fellow comedian)

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b09rjrwz (Ed and Lauren Get On/weekly podcasts on BBC with Ed Night and Lauren Pattison)

http://www.monstervoice.co.uk/shop/product/27032/Ed-Night/ (Ed Night voice-over work)

2. LIAM CONNERY (2004-2011)

Angel-voiced angelface Liam Connery appeared in the Ed Day video of "Stay With Me" above, singing the showy descant part. He was also to have his own solo moment on the 2007 Leiden DVD, in "Libera," in which he hits a top D-above-high-C note.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Di6JGLpukkI (Libera/ solo by Liam Connery/Angel Voices: Libera in Concert DVD/2007/4:17)

Here Liam sums up his activities since leaving Libera (he has been a busy boy indeed):

Performing Arts Training Ante Terminum Productions: Chorus member (tenor) in the company’s production of Britten’s Curlew River at St. Bartholomew-The-Great, Smithfield (2018).

Oxford University Drama Society (OUDS): Jonathan in Doctor Faustus (Paradise in Augustine’s, Edinburgh Fringe 2017, and the OSO Centre, Barnes, 2017) Ron in London Road (Keble O'Reilly, 2017) Orchestration for The Marriage of Kim K (Keble O'Reilly Theatre, 2016) Herrick in The Crucible (Sheldonian Theatre, 2015)

The Betty Wivell Academy of Performing Arts (2010-2014): Here I began studying the disciplines of tap, jazz, modern, ballet, and contemporary dance. Through BWA my love for musical theatre blossomed, with opportunities to perform in choreography competitions (Fairfield Halls), summer schools, cabaret nights, and musicals including 42nd Street, which played at the Secombe Theatre in Sutton (playing Julian Marsh, 2012).

Libera (2006-2012): The treble section of the choir of St. Philip’s Church, Norbury, was the internationally renowned boys' choir Libera, and with them I recorded several CDs and performed in theatres and opera houses globally, from Japan to the USA (2007-2012). I have also made several television and radio appearances with the choir, notably including: Songs of Praise (multiple music videos, BBC) When Will I Be Famous? (BBC) Aled Jones Christmas Special (ITV) This Morning (ITV) Libera Live in Concert (DVD, filmed at the Pieterkerk in Leiden, the Netherlands, 2008) Dare mo mamotte kurenai (2008, Libera performed on the soundtrack to this Japanese film) Ponyo (2008, Libera performed on the soundtrack to this film) Multiple other international TV and Radio interviews

Stagecoach Dulwich (1999-2010): Through Stagecoach, I was selected to participate in two Royal Opera House productions: Mozart's Die Zauberflote (2005), and Gounod's Faust (2006). With Stagecoach I also performed in two showcases at Her Majesty's Theatre (2008, 2010).

3. BENEDICT PHILIPP (2007-2011)

"Mini-Ben"Philipp, (see essay on names above) was only 11 years old, and singing in his first major concert when he tackled the difficult solo part based by director/composer Robert Prizeman on the "Aquarium" section of Camille St.-Saens' Carnival of the Animals.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Rb-DxTTDcg (Lacrymosa/solo by Ben Philipp/Angel Voices: Libera in Concert/2007/3:13)

His listing on an a creative professionals' website yields the following information: https://actors.mandy.com/uk/actor/profile/benedict-philipp

Credits

Year	Role / Type	Name of Production / Director	Company / Venue
2017	Director Musical	Gypsy	Footlights Exeter Barnfield Theatre
2017	Director Musical	The Producers	Footlights Exeter Northcott Theatre
2016	Piangi Musical	The Phantom of the Opera	Footlights
2015	Jamie Musical	The Last Five Years	Red Oak Theatre Company Poltimore House
2015	Emcee Musical	Cabaret	Footlights The Lemon Grove

Education

Year

Qualification

Where
2017

Theatre & Performance

University of Exeter

About me

I’ve forever found a thrill in being creative, both as a performer or in a behind-the-scenes capacity, most recently as a Director. The power of the Arts lies in its ability to liberate the self and others. For me, the Arts have become an expressive outlet through which I can find meaning in my own life. As an artist, there are few greater privileges than coming together as a company to engage with questions of humanity, entertain an audience, and provoke an emotional reaction. My interests are eclectic, but my present focus is geared towards Musical Theatre and Opera. My sensibilities are off-kilter and absurdist, and I’m constantly in search of art that feels vital and electric. There is a buzz to being creative, and I want to share that.

Additional Information

Although my ultimate goal is to work professionally in the Arts industry as a Director, I somehow always find myself being tempted to give acting another go.

Over the years, I've gained broad experience as a performer, whether as a touring chorister with London-based vocal group, Libera or more recently as the Emcee in Cabaret at Exeter's Lemon Grove.

I have a particular fondness for larger-than-life, character roles, but am always excited to stretch myself as a performer. Overcoming self-consciousness and finding release through performance was the biggest breakthrough for me at University. Once I stopped laughing at the barmy exercises, I found acting could be extremely empowering.

4. JOSHUA(JOSH) MADINE (2004-2009; Ongoing Keyboard Player for Libera)

Josh Madine only had one major solo on the Angel Voices DVD, but it was a doozy. His sweetly sincere and note-perfect collaboration with Ben Philipp and Tom Cully on "Going Home," set to a melody by Antonin Dvorák, is the all-time most-viewed Libera YouTube offering. The video below includes Josh's charming introduction to the group and the song, in the days before all such speeches were memorized.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2aLSat3h0w (Going Home/introduction by Josh Madine/solos by Josh Madine, Benedict Philipp, Tom Cully/Angel Voices DVD/2007/5:21)

On Josh's website, we discover that he has not been wasting his time:

https://joshmadine.com/about/

Josh Madine is a musical director, arranger and performer from South London.

His career in music began at the age of 10, when he started singing as a treble with the boy-choir, Libera. A regular soloist, he went on to record a number of studio albums with the group and appear on international concert tours, notably performing at the Royal Albert Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, New York Yankees Stadium and the Kennedy Center.

Josh continues to tour with Libera today as a pianist in their live accompanying chamber orchestra and has taken to stages in the US, Japan, South Korea, Russia, the Philippines, Taiwan, Germany and throughout the UK.

Josh recently graduated from the University of York with a BA First-Class Honours in Music. During his time there, he was an active musical director of both classical and musical theatre projects: he conducted the Benjamin Britten opera, The Rape of Lucretia, in April 2016, and the Cole Porter musical, Anything Goes, in February 2017, both to sell-out audiences and critical acclaim in the local press.

Josh’s classical singing ventures have seen him work as a choral scholar at York Minster (2015-16) under the direction of Robert Sharpe. And in his second and third years, he acted as Robert Hollingworth’s assistant conductor for the university’s flagship, The 24 choir, with whom he performed in Florence in March 2017 alongside an ensemble of baroque instrument specialists.

However, the majority of Josh’s time at York was spent directing his own a cappella choir, Vox; staging regular concerts on campus but also performances at the Voice Festival UK, Coastival and the London A Cappella Festival. The culmination of his work with Vox was a 9-track album of original a cappella arrangements in what formed one of his final undergraduate projects (see Music).

In another final project, Josh produced a radio programme in which he composed and performed a multi-tracked vocal soundtrack to accompany the spoken word (see Music).

Josh continues to explore his wide-ranging musical curiosities through a number of different ventures.

5. TOM CULLY/JAMIE ISAAC (2002-2010) (STAFF 2011-2012)

Tom Cully, who sang his first lisping treble solo with Libera at the age of eight in 2002, was 13 when he wowed viewing audiences with the quality and maturity of his singing on the 2007 PBS DVD. In the mysterious Robert Prizeman composition "Always With You," he demonstrated his ability to connect and project the feeling of any piece he sang.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ihxlP7oCIQs (Always with you/solo by Tom Cully/ Angel Voices DVD/2007/4:06)

His voice and maturity, as reflected in this recording of Giulio Caccini's "Ave Maria," only continued to grow.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01SOLEftSOA(Ave Maria[Caccini]/solo by Tom Cully/2009/4:19)

When Tom's voice changed, probably in 2009 (although his solo of "Ave Virgo" appeared on the group's Peace CD in 2010), he elected not to continue performing with Libera as a lower voice, but continued as a staff member for some time and appeared as a keyboard player with the group in 2012.

Tom as a Libera staff member in 2010

Meanwhile, he attended the prestigeous Brit School for Performing Arts & Technology, and headed off in an entirely new musical direction. Once he was out of the Libera cone of social-media silence, however, he eventually became frustrated with fans who insisted on stalking him online, and changed his name to Jamie Isaac, an entirely different breed of musical cat altogether. From Wikipedia:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamie_Isaac

Jamie Isaac (born Tom Cully), 2 July 1994, is a London-based singer and producer, born and raised in Croydon. Signed to House Anxiety / Marathon Artists, Jamie's debut EP, I Will Be Cold Soon, attracted attention for its near-choral incantations, minimalist jazz tones and post-rock layering.^[1]^[2] Jamie has been praised for using the power of silence with experimental and enveloping swaggering beats and his self-aware lyrics.

His second EP, Blue Break, gained recognition for its soulful, piano-led sound. Featuring Jamie in The Guardian's New Music, Michael Cragg praised "Blue Break" for "favouring space and atmosphere over production histrionics".^[8]

In the run up to the release of his debut album Couch Baby (out via House Anxiety / Marathon Artists), Isaac presented the 'Loose Grip' Mixtape, a series of remixes of tracks taken from the album featuring collaborations with Rejjie Snow, King Krule under the moniker Edgar The Beatmaker, Jesse James Solomon, Jadasea, Black Mack, and Mr Malarky.

In January 2018, Jamie announced the title of his next single 'Doing Better' on Instagram. The video for 'Doing Better' was released on 8 February 2018 and single released on 9 February 2018.

In recent times, (as of 2018) he has reclaimed his association with Libera, and speaks of all that performing with the group taught him.

https://www.wonderlandmagazine.com/2017/02/13/interview-jamie-isaac/

His current music videos display a tuneful flexibility of voice and his familiar musicality in a much different setting.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=mP7hgji7aXU (Doing Better/Jamie Isaac/3:34)

CHINA BLOG: PART ONE

On February 25th, the Libera boys posted Part One of their adventures in China:

https://libera.org.uk/blog/china/

Samuel-Francis Collins (R) and Alexandre Menuet pose with new Chinese friends.

(Sample of blog)

On February 26th, the author of this funny and articulate blog was revealed on Libera's Facebook site to be Gregor Lumsden.

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialLibera ... 4954012992

LIBERA FOOTNOTE: BEN CRAWLEY & THE SNOW QUEEN

One of the most accomplished of Libera soloists was Ben Crawley (1999-2006) (Staff 2007-c. 2010), a profoundly skilled singer who could portray great depths of emotion. Ben appeared in the soundtracks of numerous films, including a 2005 production of The Snow Queen, here described on the Libera Dreams site by Maartendas:

Tonight I watched the DVD of "The Snow Queen" which in the back of my mind had a connection to boychoirs but I couldn't remember what the connection was until I read the credits and saw that Ben Crawley was the boy soloist for the songs in the film.

"The Snow Queen" (a BBC production from 2005) is based on the fairytale by Andersen and tells the story of orphan boy Kay being taken to the palace of the evil Snow Queen. His friend Gerda then sets out on a perilous journey to save him. Throughout the movie adaptation there is some wonderful orchestral and choral music with solo parts, written by Paul K. Joyce, including a piece which uses the lyrics of "Do Not Stand".
In this particular scene the boy's sled is found in the river and seen as a sign that he has drowned.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUd4l96YFIs (Do Not Stand, from The Snow Queen /sung by Ben Crawley/2005/3:49

The film itself, which lasts just under an hour, is true to the atmosphere of all good fairy-tales and recommended for those of any age who are keen to get a little enchanted.—Maartendas

Ben also sang the lead voice on the first Libera version of "Do Not Stand."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5aDQO8eXSK0 (Do not Stand/Ben Crawley and Joe Platt/2:34)

It's interesting that the film has a mis-translation of the lyrics: "I am the diamond glints on snow" became "I am the diamonds in some snow," according to the subtitles. The part of the grieving mother was played by well-known British actress Juliet Stevenson.

Ben now composes and records under the name "Ben See." For a description and reviews of his work: https://lalalarecords.co.uk/artist/ben-see/

(End of Libera Footnote)

On March 5th, the music blog Fab Chart, which began issuing awards in 2006 on the basis of online voting, released its 2018 list of winners. Libera was the winner in both the "Best Band/Duo" and "Best Video" categories, the latter for "Smile."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0lPN6DsMhPI (Smile/solo and second parts by Gabriel Collins and Alessandro Mackinnon-Botti/from Hope CD/2017/3:51)

The blog slants toward an eclectic mix, generally (but not necessarily) of younger performers.
http://www.fabchart.net/about.html

On March 6th, Libera fan Martin Mayhew drew our attention to his YouTube Channel, which features non-videoed Libera/Angel Voices/St Philip's songs accompanied by photos. These are not elaborate slideshows, but are composed mostly of atmospheric shots and identifying photos of the singers and album covers. A handy site for those who like their music accompanied by gentle visuals.

https://www.youtube.com/user/westsarebest/videos (Martin Mayhew accompanies videos with photos)

LIBERA FOOTNOTE: MORE ON THE "CLASS OF 2007”

Of the 14 non-soloists who appeared in the 2007 Angel Voices: Libera in Concert PBS DVD, most have disappeared into private life. Two exceptions are Sam Leggett (2005-2011; 2013 and 2015 DVD appearances) and Michael Horncastle (2002-2008).

SAM LEGGETT sang only one stand-alone solo (the final “Sanctus” of a 2009 video) in his many years with the group. He was, however, rendered practically indispensable by virtue of a strong sense of musicality that manifested first in clear and flawless alto harmonies, and then in a sweet tenor. His concentration and steadiness consistently improved that of other singers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdb_cXB99tU (Sanctus/photo compilation with Sam Leggett solo/2009/2:13)

He also famously sang backup for the Rolling Stones in 2012.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojOij--3vNk (You Can't Always Get What You Want/Rolling Stones/London/2012/8:12)

Sam is on the right side of the jumbotron, the Stones are Fon the stage below.

As of early 2018, Sam was an active tenor and conductor working in London and the South of England.

Resume:

Performs with:
Berwick Consort
Voice (Tenor)
Genesis Sixteen
Voice (Tenor)

Previously performed with:
Bristol University Chamber Choir (2015 - 2016)
Conductor
London Youth Chamber Choir (2012 - 2013)
Voice (Tenor)
Bristol Cathedral Choir (2013 - 2015)
Voice (Tenor)
Bristol University Madrigal Ensemble (2014 - 2016)
Voice (Tenor)
Genesis Sixteen (2016)
Voice (Tenor)
Bristol University Singers (2017)
Voice (Tenor)
Bristol University Operatic Society (2014 - 2016)
Voice (Tenor)
Libera
Voice (Treble)
(2002 - 2014)

Sam at age 12 on the 2007 DVD

Education:
University of Bristol
Music
2013 – 2016
Wilson's School
2006 - 2013
St James the Great
2000 - 2006

Biography:

Sam Leggett read Music at Bristol University. He began singing in 2002 with the renowned boys’ choir Libera, performing in Europe, North America and Asia.
Sam was a choral scholar at Bristol Cathedral for two years and performed regularly with Bristol University Singers and Madrigal Ensemble. He has since then sung professionally with a number of choirs in London and the Southwest of England.

In 2015, Sam was accepted into Genesis Sixteen, a prestigious training course run by Harry Christophers (CBE) to nurture the next generation of professional ensemble singers.

Sam in a publicity photo

He went on to sing in the Scottish premiere of Cecilia MacDowell’s Stabat Mater during the Cumnock Tryst festival run by James Macmillan. Sam was awarded a scholarship in 2015 to conduct Bristol University Chamber Choir, a highlight of which was directing a performance of Schubert’s Mass No. 1 at St George’s Bristol. He also appeared with them in a variety of venues around Bristol and on tour in Prague.

He is also a versatile vocal coach for the stage, having served as chorus master for The Marriage of Figaro and Sweeney Todd, and as a vocal director for the pantomime Snow White. Sam has sung the roles of Lord Tolloller (Iolanthe), Adolfo Pirelli (Sweeney Todd), Le Remendado (Carmen) and Ferrando (Cosi fan tutte), and is looking forward to performing Count Almaviva (The Barber of Seville) with Tessitoura in July of 2018.

He has recently appeared as a soloist for several major works, including Stainer's The Crucifixion (UWE Chamber Choir), Schubert's Magnificat and Mozart's Sparrow Mass (Stroud Choral Society) and Handel's Messiah (Bath Abbey Choir).

Currently (early 2018), Sam is a Lay Clerk at Bath Abbey under Huw Williams, and continues his vocal studies with Angela Hickey. He is looking forward to his appointment as Lay Vicar at Chichester Cathedral in September.

MICHAEL HORNCASTLE (2002-2008)

Michael was fourteen and singing with the "big people in the back" for the 2007 DVD. Before his voice changed, however, he was one of Libera's sweetest and most soulful treble soloists.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNgd-kue_Fc (FarAway/solo by Michael Horncastle/2006/2:39)

Michael (center) singing on the 2007 DVD with Thomas Cole (L), Josh Madine, Michael Vereycken, and Conor O'Donnell

After Libera, Michael kept on singing, but mostly just for fun. His real calling became the design of printed textiles and clothing, notably for the fashion line Aprés.

Michael Horncastle is a London-based freelance printed textile designer, and graduate from a degree in Fashion BA (Hons) at the University for the Creative Arts, Epsom.

He has a keen focus on print, textile and graphic design and embellishment. Michael is hardworking, well-motivated and highly committed to upholding quality through all aspects of a project. Due to his interest in surface design, specifically print, the main inspirations for projects come from strong visual imagery in his research.

This research comes from a multitude of disciplines, including fine art, architecture and graphic design. Michael is interested in developing iconic garments into contemporary, wearable designs with strong graphic features.

With a confident eye for colour, fabric quality and pattern, and a strong awareness of contemporary design and current trends, he is able to translate his modern, innovative concepts into both surface designs and inventive garments.

http://www.michaelhorncastle.com/about/

CALLUM PAYNE (2003-2008), who was 14 at the time of the DVD, is now an advanced protection and anti-hijack driver.

TIARNAN BRANSON (2006-2013) was accepted as a choral scholar at Magdalen College, Oxford University in 2012, This was his Twitter profile as of March 2018.

A TWEET FROM ST. PHILIP'S

Many Libera boys and alumni also participate in events such as this at St. Philip's

February 20th: with the continued dearth of Libera news, we turn to another

LIBERA FLASHBACK: VOCA ME: A LIBERA CLASSIC

Above: “Voca Me” publicity image, with Michael Horncastle

In 2011, the boys of Libera concluded their touring year with November performances in Northern Ireland, where, in the course of a rich and varied program, they presented the first-ever live performance of a beautifully complex composition called “Voca Me,” a piece that initially appeared on CD and video in 2003, but until then had never before been sung onstage in public.

This work, by Libera director/composer arranger Robert Prizeman, is brooding and intense, especially when compared to the majority of his music, which tends toward the ethereal, lyrical, and anthemic. Like most of Prizeman’s compositions, this one is a blend of Latin and English; its lyrics encompass familiar Prizeman themes of tears, sorrow, light and hope.

The piece created somewhat of a stir in English classical circles when it first appeared—it was nominated for a “Classical Brit” Award, named to EMI’s “Best Sacred 100” list, and, oddly, was included on a CD called Harmony, the official classical CD of the 2004 Athens Olympics. To this day, it’s likely to pop up on half-a-dozen Pandora stations, and the “Voca Me” video remains a popular request on British Classical MTV.

The somewhat surprising video is dense, atmospheric and extremely effective, although IMHO whoever thought it was a good idea to take a dozen or so young boys in flowing white robes into a dark forest on a nose-numbing English winter night and then proceed to issue them with flaming torches seriously needed his head examined. (Michael Horncastle (2002-2008), the adorable child who appears as a little boy lost in the woods, actually managed to lose himself for real during the windup of the shoot, causing a brief panic, but no one was actually set on fire.)

The other soloists in the 2003 video were Chris Robson (L) and Anthony Chadney

The high-descant soloist was the unflappable Joe Platt (1999-2007), a sturdy-looking, even-tempered boy with the somewhat uncanny vocal ability to cruise ethereally in the rarified dog-whistle air above high C without so much as breaking a sweat. (When his voice changed in 2006, several of his descant vocal parts had to be replaced by a violin or flute.)

Joe Platt (R) with Michael Horncastle in the background.

http://youtu.be/Swr2lnceoh0 (Voca Me/Solos by Christopher Robson and Anthony Chadney/Descant by Joe Platt/2003/5:00)

For more of Platt’s pinpoint purity, you may want to watch this somewhat overdramatically presented (Fog machines? Really?) performance (at the 2005 “Classical Brit” Awards ceremony) of another stirring Prizeman composition, “Te Lucis/Vespera,” with popular Welsh soloist Aled Jones backed by Libera, and Joe P. having the spine-tingling last word. The piece is a classic Prizeman mix of traditional plainsong, a Compline hymn, and an unforgettable verse from Psalm 17.

Vespera Classical Brits #B08E27 (Te Lucis/Vespera/Aled Jones with Libera/Classical Brit Awards, 2005/descant by Joe Platt)

Thomas Delgado-Little (2010-2015), was barely 10 years old when he sang the descant in Ireland, but was already shaping up to fill Joe Platt’s white concert slippers admirably. (At one point, he reached for a high D and hit an almost-impossible E-flat instead.)

In 2013, Tom hit all the descant notes in the concert performance of “Voca Me” that was recorded for the PBS special Angels Sing: Christmas in Ireland, but the piece was not considered lively or seasonal enough to be included in the final selection for the DVD. Finally, in 2015, his remarkable performance in the song was included as an extra on another DVD, Angels Sing: Libera in America.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2qjNaKlUje4 (Voca Me/descant by Tom Delgado-Little/Angels Sing: Libera in America DVD/2015/4:40)

CHINA VIDEOS

On March 24th, a fan, 1udwig1874, posted the following find on the Libera Dreams Forum. The videos of the group's concert in Wuxi, China, are quite amateurish, and jerky in spots, but the sound is fairly good. The full-concert series of videos allowed the many fans who are not able to attend Libera concerts to see and hear new songs/soloists and staging.

A bonus highlight of this site is an ambitious rendition of "Agnus Dei" by the Wuxi City Palace Children's Choir, under the directorship of Yan Liang Kun,which then joined Libera for an exquisite version of "The Moon Represents My Heart."

Hi, at a Chinese video site I found some videos of the china tour. Maybe these are issued on YouTube too, I don`t know. Perhaps you will need a vpn to watch these.

What a Wonderful World:

https://www.bilibili.com/video/av18838848

Libera

https://www.bilibili.com/video/av158160 ... d_report.1

Complete concert! You can choose every single song from a menu! Unfortunately is the sound not very loud! It is the first time I have heard Oliver Mycka in "Stay With Me"!!!! Yeah!!!

https://www.bilibili.com/video/av159035 ... d_report.1 (Video of China Concert, October 2017)—ludwig1874

CHINA BLOG II

Also on March 24th, Libera posted the second part of the China Blog, in which it was revealed that a round of upset tummies changed the dynamics of the second concert considerably.

Two fans who attended the concert commented on the blog (on the Libera Dreams Forum):

Yes, there were a bit of changes at the 2nd concert.
If I'm correct, "Far Away" and "What a Wonderful World" were not sung, and a few other songs had a soloist change, like Rocco Tesei alone on "Libera'" and being the soloist on “Wayfaring Stranger.”
These little changes were possible to notice only by the returning fans, the concert went smoothly and normal for those attending. —FandeLok

I remember that it was "Smile" instead of 'What a Wonderful World' (together with "Far Away") that was not sung on the 25th - "What a Wonderful World" was there, but some parts which are meant for solo were sung by the whole choir.

The issue on the Oct 25th was tragic, now that I know the cause of it (and I do feel hurt reading about them "lying on the floor in the changing room"). However, it (again) proved that Libera is full of professionalism. As Patrick (FandeLok) said, I don't think anybody noticed anything at all. Also, applause for Ciaran Bradbury-Hickey for having successfully managed the lower parts (all by himself) on that day. —kinda_kOOl

Enjoying a driving-simulator ride at a Shanghai amusement park are (L to R): Rocco Tesei, back-seat driver Robert Prizeman, Ben Bywater at the wheel, Gregor Lumsden (top),Leo Barron (partially hidden), and Taichi Shinokubo.

https://libera.org.uk/blog/china-part-2/

Before there was Libera,

there was Angel Voices, a group that evolved out of the St. Philip's Boys' Choir in 1987. A chance visit to the archives of the once-active-but-now-dormant Mini-Angels site revealed an evocative collection of photos from a 1997 Angel Voices website.

http://mini-angels.blogspot.com/2012/08/old-angel-voices-pictures.html

A few examples:

Possibly Liam O' Kane in the 1996 "Salva Me" video.

Angel Voices recordings often included the voices of members of the adult St. Philip's Choir. White-robed boys here include soloist Liam O' Kane (L), Libera Assistant Music Director & Producer Sam Coates (Center front), and Chris Turner.

On April 8th, Libera tweeted the following:

As of this photo, it appeared that Isaac London and Alessandro Mackinnon-Botti were not with the group. The "big people at the back" appear to be Marc Alvares, Camden Stewart, Alex Montoro and Gregor Lumsden, with many miniboys in evidence/

By April 21st, it was becoming increasingly clear that there would be no further public performances by Libera until their scheduled May 2nd concert at Ely Cathedral.

Meanwhile, as diversion, here is an interesting video compiled by fan Will Shaw in 2016. In his words: "I decided to compile together a collection of when Libera sings super freaky high! Its SWEET!" The solo voices, though not specifically indicated, include: Ben Crawley, Joe Platt, Tom Cully, Steven Geraghty, and Conor O' Donnell. The song fragments are identified by name.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voKJp4_zSJU (Libera High Parts/compiled by Will Shaw/2016/11:31)

USA TOUR IN THE WORKS

April 22nd: although there was at this point no official announcement from Libera, fan Surpinto posted the first concert date of a presumed summer USA Tour: Tuesday, August 7, 2018 at Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, California.

On April 26th, an article about the upcoming Libera concert at Ely Cathedral appeared in the Ely and Soham News.

Pictured above are: Nathaniel Bates, Joseph Cranitch, Adam Izghouti, Emanuele Borelli, Alex Montoro, Tadgh Fitzgerald and Rocco Tesei.

http://www.elystandard.co.uk/news/chart ... -1-5494557

Also on April 27th, the third and final segment of the China Blog appeared; an excerpt:

https://libera.org.uk/blog/china-part-3-2/

On April 28th, fan ChrisJ posted a discovery on the Libera Dreams Forum: the concert schedule for flautist and frequent Libera accompanist Eimar McGeown, revealing that the latter half of 2018 would be full of travel and adventure for the group, with tours to the US, Japan, and Russia in the works.

http://www.eimearmcgeown.com/concert-schedule

On May 1st, the information floating around about the US tour prompted an email from Libera of the US:

Thanks for signing up for our mailing list. Many of you probably signed up then thought to yourself, "Why didn't I ever receive any emails?"

So we thought it was about time to send out something -- anything!

We've received several requests for information about an upcoming tour to the United States. So I'd like to confirm that yes, we are at least planning to tour the US this summer.

That's not a definite "yes" but it's a lot better than "no", right?

There have been a couple rumors floating around about whether there would be a tour, and where the concerts would be. I won't be verifying those rumors here, but I can say that some of them are eerily close to the truth.

We can verify that if this proposed tour happens, that it will be roughly the same time frame as last year: late July to early August.

We cannot verify cities, or venues, because sometimes, even when we think a venue is booked, something happens and we have to change the schedule.

As Libera often says, nothing is final until you see the date posted on the UK site.

Here's hoping that this email was better than nothing.

On May 5th, Libera tweeted the following:

On May 10th, a note from dani on the Libera Passion Forum, ending with some interesting news:

Ely Cathedral seem to have indicated that Libera have a new album coming out:

Libera in Concert
Sat 12th May 2018
A British group of seven- to sixteen-year-old boys who have been wowing audiences across the world will be performing its UK spring concert in Ely Cathedral on Saturday 12th May. Since it was formed in 1995, Libera has traveled the world, topping the mainstream and classical charts and bringing its distinctive sound to television, radio and live audiences.

In the UK, the choir has sung on programmes from Songs of Praise to Last Choir Standing and BBC Breakfast, whilst overseas they have performed for some of the world’s greatest leaders, including Bill Clinton and two popes. This year, the group’s UK spring concert will, once again, take place in Ely Cathedral, providing the opportunity for local audiences to experience these remarkable boys at first hand. Dressed in their hallmark long white robes, they will present their special brand of choral music in a fully staged concert with orchestra and lighting, including some of the most beautiful choral pieces ever written and music from their forthcoming new album (emphasis by dani).

MAY 12TH ELY CATHEDRAL CONCERT

Early Tweets from concert attendees provided a wealth of information, including (program photos by Patrick and Danielle):

the song list...

1. Mysterium (Leo Barron high notes, merged into Joyful Joyful))
2. Joyful Joyful
3 In Paradisum (Rocco Tesei solo with Gabriel Collins supporting vocals)
4.The Prayer (Daniel White)
5. Stay With Me (Oliver Mycka solo; high descant by Samuel-Francis Collins
6. Ave Maria (version from Visions CD) (Merlin Brouwer)
7. How Great Thou Art (Alex Gula)
8. Voca Me (Leo Barron high descant)
9. Orinoco Flow
10. I Am The Day (Alex Gula, Peter Kielty, Oliver Mycka)
11. From A Distance (Merlin Brouwer)
12. Salva Me (High “salvas” by Oliver Watt-Rodriguez)
13. Amazing Grace (solo verse by Peter Kielty)
14. Sanctus (new arrangement, including a new chorus)
15. Wayfaring Stranger (Alex Gula)
16. Eternal Light (Ben Bywater)
17. Nearer My God To Thee (Alex Montoro, Ben Bywater, Merlin Brouwer, Rocco Tesei, Alex Gula, Leo Barron)
18. Libera (Alex Gula, Rocco Tesei)
(Encore) Smile (Victor Wiggin; Romeo Tesei on recorder)

...the names of the 36 boys participating (notable are the "graduation" of Alessandro Mackinnon-Botti to staff, the return of Theo Wood, the addition of a newbie, Dominik Clarke, The absence of Neo Parson and Arthur Palmer, and the information that there would be no autograph session because the boys had a long ride back to London...

Marc Alvares
Ethan Barron
Leo Barron
Nathaniel Bates-Fisher
Emanuelle Borrelli
Merlin Brouwer
Benedict Bywater
Dominik Clarke
Cassius Collard
Gabriel Collins
Samuel-Francis Collins
Joseph Cranitch
Tadhg Fitzgerald
Johnny Gardner
Alexander Gula
Adam Izghouti
Peter Kielty
Gregor Lumsden
Alexandre Menuet
Alexander Montoro
Mathias Montoro
Oliver Mycka
~~Neo Parson~~ (listed in program but not present)
Koji Shinokubo
Taichi Shinokubo
Jack Spicha
Camden Stewart
Laurence Taylor
Nicholas Taylor
Rocco Tesei
Romeo Tesei
Calam Virk Tamana
Oliver Watt-Rodriguez
Benjamin Wevill
Daniel White
Victor Wiggin
Theo Wood

(Note from Johan: As you see the Woods are back, Theo in the choir and Lucas was in the audience.)

...changes to verses of tried-and-true songs "Sanctus" and "Voca Me," and a new version of "In Paradisum,"

...and the official announcement of a new album entitled Libera Beyond.

Daniel White

The Libera Passion site with member IDs and information was updated to reflect the Ely concert at
http://libera-passion.exprimetoi.net/t1110-apercu-des-membres-actuels-maj-mai-2018

CONCERT REVIEW
By John45 (with notes in parentheses by Johan)

Where to begin? Perhaps at the end with one of the nicest surprises of the night which was the encore, “Smile,” performed perfectly by Mr. Smiley himself, Victor Wiggin, with Romeo Tesei on recorder and Alex Montoro on low harmony. A well deserved standing ovation followed for one of Libera’s best concerts ever. No hitches with sound, beautiful lighting, outstanding performances.

Victor Wiggin and Romeo Tesei

The concert started with a lovely flute introduction to a somewhat shortened version of "Mysterium" with Leo Barron doing the soaring high notes to perfection.

(The concert started with the flutist Eimear McGeown alone on the stage, lighted by a single strobe. When she started to play the boys came up from two sides.)

Unusually, but effectively in my opinion, it segued from the sombre and mysterious to the joyful with “Joyful, Joyful," performed with the usual gusto.

(The first talk was by Alex Gula and Peter Kielty with a welcome and announcement of the new album Libera Beyond in a few months.)

Next came a new song, “In Paradisum.” No, not the familiar Faure piece but the Communion Song from the BBC series Broken. Simply outstanding performance by Rocco Tesei. It will be featured on the forthcoming new album Libera Beyond.

Rocco Tesei

Nine-year-old Daniel White (yes, nine years old) was next with “The Prayer.” Very pure voice, remarkable performance, great confidence and stage presence from one so young. I think we can expect great things to come from Daniel.

Daniel White

Oliver Mycka followed with “Stay with Me”. No problems with his microphone this time (as at Westminster) and we were able to fully appreciate the quality of his very pleasing voice. I am told Sam Collins did the high notes.

Samuel-Francis Collins

(Then Alexandre Menuet and Victor Wiggin explained about the white dress and Alex buried himself in the hood of it.)

Alex Gula, Oliver Mycka. Peter Kielty and Ben Bywater.

A new version of “Ave Maria” was next. We have come to expect flawless performances from Merlin Brouwer and this was no exception. A difficult piece performed exceptionally well.

The same could be said for Alex Gula who once again delivered my favourite hymn “How Great Thou Art” with such feeling. Goosebumps on goosebumps.

A modified version of “Voca Me” followed with Leo Barron doing the high solo. Could Thomas Delgado-Little’s performance of this song ever be matched? Leo gave us the answer. Yes it could.

Leo Barron

(The next talk was by Koji Shinokubo and Daniel White. They explained about ages and learning the songs and announced the interval.)

A short speech introduced the final song of the first half “Orinoco Flow” performed in the usual manner.

The interval allowed an opportunity to buy merchandise and refreshments and to chat with friends old and new.

Second half opened with the version of “I am the Day” first heard at Westminster. Led by Alex Gula and accompanied by Oliver Mycka and Peter Kielty. Lovely performance. I especially like the whispery bits and the high-low exchange between Leo Barron and Alex Montoro.

Oliver Watt-Rodriguez

Next was “From a Distance” with Merlin Brouwer performing the solo to his usual high standard. “Salva Me” followed. The high notes were by Oliver Watt-Rodriguez, who did a great job.

As has been said before, “Amazing Grace” is not everyone’s favourite hymn, but this time it was redeemed by the solo verse sung beautifully by Peter Kielty. This was the first time to hear his solo voice. Why have we waited so long? More please.

(Peter Kielty then went on to explain that some of the boys not only speak English because although living in South London they came from different countries. So in their own language introduced themselves Alex Gula in Polish, Alexandre Menuet and Victor Wiggin (he called himself Victoire) in French, Oliver Watt-Rodriguez in Spanish, Theo Wood in Mexican Spanish, Tadhg Fitzgerald in Irish, Mathias Montoro in Italian and Koji Shinokubo in Japanese. Although there are a few boys with Dutch surnames, nobody spoke Dutch.)

Lovely new arrangement of “Sanctus” has restored its status as my all-time Libera favourite. It will be featured on the new CD.

Merlin Brouwer

Alex Gula, initially lit from behind making a halo effect, gave another moving performance of “Wayfaring Stranger.”.The stage was quite shallow, so the V formation was made of double lines to accommodate the 36 on stage.

A welcome return of “Eternal Light” (last performed in the Channel Islands I believe) was sung beautifully by Ben Bywater, his crystal voice "shining like a rainbow."

(The last speech was by Johnny Gardner who announced the end of the concert and an extra song before that. )

Not included in the program was a bonus a capella version of "Nearer My God to Thee." Very well done, with the participation of Merlin Brouwer, Alex Montoro, Alex Gula, Ben Bywater, Rocco Tesei and Leo Barron.

(note by ste1710fan:on "Nearer My God" Rocco got a hiccup in the middle of the song... he was fighting to swallow it, soo cute! 1 hiccup out of total 6 or 7 "attacks" made it into the microphone.... the others he somehow managed to subdue... amazing how he handled it!)

Alex Montoro

The final song of the program was the familiar “Libera” led by Alex Gula and Rocco Tesei.

A standing ovation with added vocal appreciation brings us back to the beginning of this brief report and the end of the concert.

Many thanks to Libera and the Chapter of Ely Cathedral – not forgetting the musicians and all the support staff - for a truly wonderful concert.

A look at newbie Dominik Clarke (Photo by Patrick)

AN IN-DEPTH REVIEW BY YORKIE

As the day 9of the concert) grew closer rumours abounded of a potential new album and, of course that means new songs so expectations were high. The first inklings of the changes were to be heard in the rehearsal which, as last year, was open to us fans and those members of the public lucky enough to have been visiting at just the right time (not that this is free mind, it costs us £9 entrance fee to the cathedral for the privilege).

We got to hear the return of "Mysterium" (hurray) and I must confess at first I was disappointed that it was reduced down in length, had the lyrics removed (just the ooohhh and aaahhh atmospheric parts remain) and merged with "Joyful Joyful "but it does kind of work as an opening number. Would I like to see the full version with exciting choreography back to open the second half? Of course! But it is interesting, it’s a unique sound that only Libera has and it does set the scene nicely for what is to come.

We of course heard the new version of "Sanctus" and that worked very well to freshen up this long standing classic. Everybody really liked it. Merlin Brouwer was shown to be the soloist on "Ave Maria" and he did it very well. I think he was a little nervous of seeing us all sitting there but hopefully that helped him for the main event later. This is the Robert Prizeman version of AM from the Visions album.

The new song, "In Paradisum, "was another hit amongst the gathered fans and set us off trying to track it down as some people had seen the BBC tv show or heard it on the radio and recognised it. Rocco has really developed in to a good soloist and has a very good voice.

http://vimeo.com/220820515 In Paradisum, from Broken/3:05)

We also got to see some of the speeches and I think Taichi Shinokubo teased his brother as he sort of walked forward to do the languages bit (which was Koji’s part this time) and getting the position of the mics right for Victor Wiggin and Alexandre Menuet (and Alexandre declared that he was the most French of the two!). They are a great team those two, and clearly good friends.

The staff at Ely are rather pleasant and laid back so they never actually ended up kicking the fans out, everybody just gathered at the inside entrance and started buying the merchandise from Andy Winter and Lawrence (pens, bags, photo books, CD’s, LP’s, white hoodies, fridge magnets). It was all well organised and they also had extra signed programmes this time I think.

So, on to the concert. The first thing to say is that the whole performance was well polished; they sounded great both from a singing point of view and also from the sound system generally. I have been to a few concerts where the instrumentalists have been too loud (in my opinion) and drowned out the boys but here they complimented but never dominated. Alex Gula mentioned they had been recording the new album for the previous couple of weeks and clearly they have spent a lot of time together because the whole group was working well. The lighting at Ely is a little more restrained than other venues but that is not a negative, they used colours to highlight the natural beauty of the building and used the fog machine to get that refracted light affect when needed. I can’t remember much about the choreography and in all honesty they didn’t do much but I suspect that was mainly due to the number of boys on a relatively small stage.

Eimear McGeown started off the show alone on stage, spotlit against the overall darkness, with a hauntingly beautiful, even mournful, flute solo which carried on to intertwine with the usual "Mysterium" backing music. The boys filed on stage from both left and right to supply the ooh and ahh affects with Leo Barron doing particularly well on the high call part of the song. I was able to thank him for a great concert the following day after Evensong at King’s College in Cambridge.

"In Paradisum" is not, in my opinion, an easy song to sing but Rocco Tesei settled into it really well and this will be a great track on the new CD. He is certainly a main performer in the group at the moment and a good one too. Gabriel Collins provided supporting vocals, but after his prime role in previous concerts, he did lower (although not deep) parts in this concert.

What can you say about Daniel White? First concert, he gets a speech (Westminster Cathedral) which he did confidently, next up a full solo of "The Prayer." Aged nine. And honestly, it didn’t even faze him to pick up where Isaac London left off. He has a very mature (I generally think the younger voices sound a bit thin and ‘childish (for want of a better term)) and beautiful sounding voice. This boy has it all and certainly has a bright future as a soloist if they can keep hold of him. I can describe his performance in one word. ‘Wow.’ Isaac knelt down for this but I think Daniel remained standing with the rest of the boys kneeling around him.

"Stay With Me" is a classic but we had a slight surprise when not Taichi Shinokubo but Samuel- Francis Collins made his way to the pulpit to deliver the high notes. A great job he did too and he is another one to look out for in coming years (edited to add that young Sam tends to sing with his head inclined to one side, very much like big brother Gabe). Oliver Mycka, free of the mic problems that hampered the song at Christmas, delivered to us a confident and exemplary main vocal. He also has a good voice and they certainly have strength in depth at the moment.

"Ave Maria" is reworked with the addition of a new chorus for the new album and Merlin Brouwer always looks happy to be on stage with his shy smile as he approached the mic to sing. A song that has been a mainstay of the Libera catalogue over the years with some big name singers and Merlin has added his name to that roll of honour. Many people had this as one of their favourite numbers on the night.

"How Great Thou Art;"Alex Gula, How Great Thou Art. He keeps on producing the vocals despite his deep (and very pleasant) speaking voice. He is nearly 13 now so is in the prime of his treble voice if perhaps not quite as high as it once was. He will undoubtedly feature on the new CD and I hope that you get to hear him through the rest of this year’s concerts (to be clear his voice is strong and pure at the moment and he didn’t struggle once on the night).

"Voca Me" is one of my all-time favourite Libera songs and it gets messed about with at your peril. Fear not, RP is safe from my wrath as his rearrangement for the new album works well, retaining the same tune. I speculated with Patrick before the concert that it would be a new arrangement because it was one of the songs listed for the new album and we knew from rehearsal that the others had been given a workover. I was right. Leo Barron ascended the steps to the pulpit to deliver some confident high notes in the Thomas Delgado-Little class and he is certainly developing a reputation as the big note specialist of the group, but I also hope we get a solo from him on the new album. "Orinoco Flow" closed the first half.

"I Am The Day" was executed fantastically well with Alex Gula on the main vocal not putting a note wrong and Peter Kielty and Oliver Mycka doing the whispering that was perfectly balanced to Alex’s singing and had a nice bit of reverb. "From A Distance" was introduced by Tadhg Fitzgerald and Alex Gula after their talk about ‘The Moose, The Real Moose’ and his Twitter account and Korean exploits. Merlin Brouwer is the perfect singer to pick up the baton from Alex Montoro for this song and it has really grown on me.

"Salva Me" was next and young Oliver Watt-Rodriguez got his chance to show us what he could do and he didn’t disappoint. After making his way to the pulpit he knocked those "Salvas" out of the park (poor Robert had to stand up to cue him in with his conductors baton so far away was he). "Amazing Grace" featured Peter Kieltywho ‘saved a wretch like me’. Another good voice who could easily pick up many solos based on his performance here. The boys were in two semi-circles behind him.

"Sanctus" has had a bit of a nip and tuck this year and has come out fresh faced and ready for the new album with a very pleasant melodic rising Hosanna addition. "Wayfaring Stranger" was Alex Gula again but his now richer, fuller voice leant a new twist to this fantastic song. They had to do a double ‘V’ line for Alex to walk through and he was back lit through the smoke for a great visual effect. Alex is just so accomplished right now; his singing is effortless. I’ve said it a lot throughout this write up but they really have a lot of boys capable of delivering top class solos at the moment and here comes another, Ben Bywater, in the long line of legends of that name. "Eternal Light " has been off the rota for a while and Ben is the right man to bring it back, with secondary vocals by Oliver Watt-Rodriguez; they sounded great together.

Now, probably my favourite song of the evening – "Nearer My God To Thee." I think they should do more a cappella songs to be honest, because everyone they do is sublime and is a real wow factor for the audience. The haters can keep snarking about recorded vocals and auto-tune but anybody that is lucky enough to see them live knows what nonsense that is; NMGTT is everything that I love about Libera – harmonies, purity, entertainment, tear inducing – I found myself holding my breath as we were bathed in its glory and when it finished and the silence held sway I let out a little sigh before the longest applause of the evening took over.

The lyrics are not in the programme as the song was unlisted but I’m pretty sure they sang the first two verses and then the last:

Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee!
E'en though it be a cross that raiseth me;
Still all my song shall be nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee!

Though like the wanderer, the sun gone down,
Darkness be over me, my rest a stone;
Yet in my dreams I'd be nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee!

Or if on joyful wing, cleaving the sky,
Sun, moon, and stars forgot, upwards I fly,
Still all my song shall be, nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee!

Using Patrick’s breakdown of the singers (thanks Patrick!) Merlin Brouwer started the song with the first two lines on his own. Then Ben Bywater joined him for the second two lines of the first verse. The singers sing in slightly different keys and sometimes delayed from each other so you get layered and beautiful harmonies that are quite spectacular.

Next Alex Gula added his voice to Ben's and Merlin's for the first two lines of the second verse before Alex Montoro, Rocco Tesei and Leo Barron joined for the last two lines of the second verse, with Alex M’s deeper voice really balancing and supporting the other five.
As we get to the last verse singers drop out after the first two lines so that the last line drops to just Merlin & Ben, then Merlin and eventually Rocco sings a repeat of the last line alone. Perfect. I really hope this is included on the CD, perhaps as a hidden track if it does not fit the style of the rest of the album or as part of a ‘deluxe’ version.

"Libera" makes the last official song of the night with Rocco Tesei and Alex Gula doing excellent work on the calling parts before the encore of "Smile." As has been written many times already, Victor Wiggin exudes happiness on stage and he smiled throughout the night, not least in this one. And what a voice too! He was able to covey the emotion of the song perfectly, another rising star. Mustn’t forget that Romeo Tesei also featured his recorder playing, and he still has to sing the other parts too!

Earlier in the day I asked a few people what their favourite Libera concert ever was (hard for some who have many, many to pick from). I can safely say that for many of the reasons I have listed above, this was certainly amongst the best I have experienced. I wish it was on DVD so that we could all relive it again.—Yorkie

US TOUR OFFICIAL

We have some exciting news for you all!

We can now officially confirm that Libera will indeed be returning to the US this summer.

Here is a partial list of concert venues and dates. More dates may be added.

We hope to see you at the concerts, and please give some thought to helping us cover the expenses of bringing them back, by donating to Libera of the US at LIBERA.ORG.

Here is the official statement from Libera:

Libera will be returning to the US this summer. We are very pleased to announce that concerts will take place in the following venues during the tour and that more will be added:

Sunday 29th July, 2018: St Andrew United Methodist Church, Plano, Dallas, Texas

Tuesday 31st July, 2018: St Ignatius Church, San Francisco, California

Friday 3rd August, 2018: Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, Los Angeles, California

Tuesday 7th August, 2018: Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove, California

Box / booking offices have not yet opened and information, including ticketing details, will follow shortly with news of tour plans as they unfold further.

Meantime, donations are welcome to support the tour and can be made via our websites: LIBERA.ORG and LIBERA.ORG.UK.

On May 15th, a video announcing the 2018 USA tour appeared

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=6&v=VLAws7sMVzE

On May 16th, we added an excellent review by Yorkie, which follows John45/Johan's above (scroll up).

On May 28th, a tweet from Libera, and a new promotional video requesting donations to Libera of the US:

Top: Adam Izghouti, Dominik Clarke, Alexandre Menuet. Bottom: Rocco Tesei and Leo Barron.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKQdb_W6OFU (35-second promo for 2018 US tour, wuth Adam Izghouti and Leo Barron)

On May 29th, another tweet hinted at the making of a new video. No clue as to whether it was for promotional use or an actual music video.

https://www.instagram.com/officiallibera/

On June 1st, the following comment by kinda_kOOl appeared on the Libera Dreams Forum :

Libera for the US also announced that there will be a 'future film'. There's a high chance it will include some behind-the-scene frames of their 2017 US Tour - another thing to look forward to.

On June 2nd, Libera updated their tour schedule with a July 24th date in San Antonio, Texas

On July 3rd, Libera posted the photo gallery from the May 12th Ely Cathedral concert (although the link reads westminster2017).

Nine-year-old Daniel White sings "The Prayer."

Leo Barron sings the "Voca Me" descant

https://libera.org.uk/gallery/westminster-cathedral-2017-2/

Clockwise from Top Left: Koji Shinokubo and Nathaniel Bates-Fisher; Daniel White; Nicholas Taylor; Laurence Taylor.

On June 12th, Libera fan Emily_kr contributed part one of a characteristically detailed review of the May 12th Ely Cathedral concert, this time with an unusual analysis of the lighting and the text of the boys' speeches.

https://blog.naver.com/angdooemily/221298342168 (Review of May, 2018 Ely Cathedral concert by Emily_kr)

OFFICIAL 2018 US TOUR POSTERS

On July 1st, fans Yumiko and Patrick re-discovered an interesting 2015 interview with Robert Prizeman on a Phoenix, Arizona radio program, done in conjunction with that year's US tour.

http://thebishopshour.libsyn.com/2015/04 (4-27-15 Robert Prizeman interview on The Bishop's Hour, Phoenix, Arizona/from 35:00 on)

On July 7th came the first official announcement of a Libera tour to Japan.

Also on July 7th, fan Will Shaw posted a lovely appearance by Libera with Aled Jones, singing the John Rutter arrangement of "Pie Jesu."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHHqjibeqno&feature=youtu.be (Pie Jesu arranged by John Rutter/Aled Jones with Libera, English Session Orchestra and Llanelli Male Choir/3:25)

On July 8th, fans Patrick and Yuki passed on some new information about what was being billed as the "Beyond Tour" of Japan:

The two concerts in Tokyo on October 21 and 22 will be performed at the Shinjuku Bunka Center, which can seat 1800 people.

The other concert place in Osaka on October 26 is well known, it's the Osaka International Convention Center, where Libera already performed twice, in December 2015 and June 2017. The hall can seat 2754 people.

On July 17th Patrick Fandelok tweeted the announcement of a new concert on the
Japan "Beyond" tour. It appeared on the LiberaOfficial website shortly thereafter.

On July 18th, kinda_kOOl posted a translation of the Kajimoto site:

The upcoming Libera Angel Voice Tour 2018 "beyond" in Japan will have 4 concerts as follows:

TOKYO: at Shinjuku Bunka Center Grand Hall

October 21 at 5 pm (4 pm door opening)
October 22 at 7 pm (6 pm door opening)

Kajimoto E+ exclusive prior reception: 12 pm July 20 - 6 pm July 23
E+ prior reception: 12 pm July 21 - 6 pm July 23
Pia tickets prior reception: 10 am July 21 - 11:59 pm July 28
Open for the public: from 10 am July 29

NAGOYA: at Zepp Nagoya

October 24 at 7 pm (6 pm door opening)

Kajimoto E+ exclusive prior reception: 12 pm July 27 - 6 pm July 30
E+ prior reception: 12 pm July 28 - 6 pm July 30
Pia tickets prior reception: *to be adjusted* (?)
Open for the public: from 10 am August 5

OSAKA: at Osaka International Conference Center

October 26 at 7 pm (6 pm door opening)

<Ticket sale> Same as the Tokyo concerts
-----

ABOUT THE TICKETS:

For concerts in Tokyo & Osaka: Premium 12000 Yen, reserved 8000 Yen, casual 3000 Yen
For the concert in NAGOYA: Premium 12000 Yen, reserved 10000 Yen, casual 5000 Yen

PLAY GUIDE (honestly what is this?)

Kajimoto E+, E+, Pia Ticket, Lawson Ticket
T Ticket, Rakuten Ticket, Sunday Ticket Center (only for the Nagoya concert)

PREMIUM PRIVILEGE (for the 12000 Yen tickets):
Guaranteed front & centre seat, concert pamphlet, and not for sale goods

Only 100 premium tickets for each concert, and only handled by Kajimoto E+ and E+.

MOSCOW CONCERT NEWS—(From Patrick on the Libera Dreams Forum)

It's been rumoured for a couple of months (see here) that Libera may go perform another concert in Moscow, this December 2018.

Although there is still no official announcement by Libera itself, the idea seems now quite solid, as a new step occurred this week.

Firstly, the precise date of the concert is now published, it will be on Friday December 28th, at 19:00.

The venue is the new Philharmonic Hall that was just build in Zaryadye Park, right next to the Red Square and the Kremlin.

The building presents two very different aspects for the front entrance, a massive vertical wall of glass, and the back entrance, a large and long stairs surrounded by grass, that creeps beneath a very large glass roof that looks like a leaf

Here are a few photos :

The main hall can sit 1560 people.

More info and photos on the wikipedia page : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zaryadye_Park

The new step of this week is that tickets are now on sale

Click this URL :
https://zaryadyehall.com/afisha/nastroe ... ase_id=380

The site at first appears only in Cyrillic, but this can be turned to English, and it is possible for everyone to buy tickets, even for foreigners from abroad.

USA CONCERT TOUR 2018

"We thought 30 degrees (86˚ F.) in London was hot...until we hit 42 degrees (107.6˚ F.)in San Antonio, on the first day of our amazing US Tour."

On July 22nd, the boys arrived in Texas for the beginning of their tour. Libera spotters counted 27 of the 32 boys in the photo.

BEYOND SONG LIST ANNOUNCED

On July 23rd, The big announcement of the song list for the upcoming Beyond CD was posted on the Japanese Libera Records site, and highlighted on the Libera Dreams Forum by fans kinda_kOOl and Surpinto:

Libera Records has updated the news regarding Libera "beyond" - see here.

The album will be released in Japan on Oct 17, 2018, containing different arrangements of previous Libera songs (some of you have guessed correctly)

Tracklist:
- Ave Maria (Caccini)
- Voca Me
- Ave Maria (RP)
- Sanctus
- Mother of God (Tavener)
- Always with you
- Salve Regina
- Benedictus Deus
- In Paradisum
- (Japan Special) 明日へ (To tomorrow) ～for the future
- DVD: Lacrimosa (music video)

There is some more information on the 'mini diary' and stuff, just put the link to Google translate & you'll get hold of what it says.

From what I understand, the last song (Japan Special - 明日へ～for the future) is sung entirely in Japanese. And that piece is co-written by Seiji Kameda and Robert Prizeman—kinda—kOOl

Both versions of "Ave Maria" were on Eternal (2008) with two different soloists; so this actually not without precedent. In fact, very many of these songs were last seen on that very album!

I am going to categorize the songs thusly....

Last Seen on Eternal (new recordings certain)

Ave Maria (Caccini)
Mother of God
Always with you

Last Seen on Hope (new recordings unlikely)

Salve Regina
Benedictus Deus

Songs Performed in Ely (new recordings certain)

Voca Me - There was a live recording for the America CD, but this will be a studio album. Last studio recording was on Eternal.
Ave Maria (RP)
Sanctus
In Paradisum - This is a totally new song, so no doubt about a new recording can exist.

Brand New - Unknown Before Now (without doubt new recordings)

(Japan Special) 明日へ (To tomorrow) ～for the future
DVD: Lacrimosa (music video) - Not sure sure about this one. Same "Lacrymosa" as on Peace? It remains to be seen, but I would guess a new recording.—Surpinto

Libera in San Antonio, TX

Tobin Center for the Performing Arts

Time: 7:30pm

THE CONCERT

THE SINGERS: (*newbies on tour)

Marc Alvares
Leo Barron
Nathaniel Bates-Fisher
Emanuele Borelli
Merlin Brouwer
Benedict Bywater
Dominik Clarke*
Cassius Collard
Samuel-Francis Collins
Joseph Cranitch
Tadgh Fitzgerald
Johnny Gardner*
Alexander Gula
Adam Izghouti
Peter Kielty
Alexandre Menuet
Alexander Montoro
Mathias Montoro
Oliver Mycka
Neo Parson
Koji Shinokubo
Taichi Shinokubo
Camden Stewart
Laurence Taylor
Rocco Tesei
Romeo Tesei
Oliver Watt-Rodriguez
Benjamin Wevill*
Daniel White*
Victor Wiggin
Theo Wood

Gabriel Collins and Gregor Lumsden were the only singers from the previous concert missing. Arthur Palmer had presumably left the group.

THE SONG LIST (with SOLOISTS):

1. Mysterium (Leo Barron high notes, merged into Joyful Joyful)
2. Joyful Joyful
3. In Paradisum (Rocco Tesei solo)
4.The Prayer (Daniel White)
5. Stay With Me (Oliver Mycka solo; high descant by Samuel-Francis Collins)
6. Ave Maria (version from Visions CD) (Merlin Brouwer)
7. How Great Thou Art (Alex Gula)
8. Smile (Victor Wiggin; Romeo Tesei on recorder)
9. Voca Me (new arrangement; Leo Barron high descant)
10. Orinoco Flow

INTERVAL

11. I Am The Day (Alex Gula, Peter Kielty, Oliver Mycka)
12. From A Distance (Merlin Brouwer)

13. Wayfaring Stranger (Alex Gula)
14. Amazing Grace (solo verse by Peter Kielty)
15. Sanctus (new arrangement, including a new chorus)

16. Salva Me (High “salvas” by Oliver Watt-Rodriguez)
17. Nearer My God To Thee (Alex Montoro, Ben Bywater, Merlin Brouwer, Rocco Tesei, Alex Gula, Leo Barron)
18. Eternal Light (Ben Bywater)
19. Libera (Alex Gula, Rocco Tesei)
(Encore) America the Beautiful

Top: Rocco Tesei, Taichi Shinokubo, Victor Wiggin, Theo Wood, Romeo Tesei, Koji Shinokubo

THE FIRST REVIEW (by Surpinto):

The concert went very well. The lighting at the Tobin does an excellent job illuminating them, however as the overhead lights of the stage physically turned, they tended to blind the audience a bit.

Otherwise, this concert was an exact replica of Ely with four changes. First, “Smile” was part of the set list rather than an encore. Second, “Salva Me” and “Wayfaring Stranger” switched places on the set list. Third, “America the Beautiful” was added as the encore. Fourth, we got the full version of “Mysterium.” Even “Nearer My God To Thee” was included; though it was not on the set list yet again. There were no solo changes from Ely either. However, if I am missing some changes I hope that others would be so kind as to correct me.

So here are the small differences I noticed including my personal annotations....

"Joyful Joyful" – They again transitioned from “Mysterium” into “Joyful Joyful” but this time it sounded a bit softer in tone somehow than Ely.

"In Paradisum" – Very well done by Rocco Tesei. It was even better than in Ely.

Rocco Tesei

"Smile" - No recorder solo by Romeo Tesei. He apparently forgot it (in the hotel?) as I overheard him saying so in the signing line.

"Voca Me" – Same melody as the recorded version, just different lyrics. Sounded better than in Ely because I could hear individual voices in a cool kind of way….even from row 5. I think I heard Rocco Tesei in particular a few times but am not entirely certain.

"From a Distance" – Having heard Merlin Brouwer sing this several times now, I would say that this was the best I have heard him on this song in terms of just a perfect execution.

Merlin Brouwer

"Wayfaring Stranger" – Alex Gula sounded markedly different this time. The sort of raspy quality he has to his voice which gave it some nice character has sort of morphed into something else. I would say that if his voice isn’t at or near breaking then at the very least it has matured; and this has given him a more operatic tone. A more smooth tone somehow. It works.

Alex Gula

"Sanctus" – I have been complaining about “Sanctus” being on nearly every album and performed at every concert forever. I like the song, but have had enough of it. But this performance may have been the best I have ever heard this piece performed. Yes, it is a change from the CD versions, but I do not mean that; I mean the performance itself. It just sounded extremely polished and I could hear all of the harmonies perfectly. “Sanctus” has been renewed and revived for me.

"Eternal Light" – I liked this song in Ely with Ben Bywater on solo, but I must say that he sounded even better this time than at that concert.

Ben Bywater

Having given the long-form summary I will also give my own personal highlights in no particular order.

The Lighting. Certainly not anywhere near as elaborate as at other venues, but it was solid and well done. No surprise, given the fact that this is a theater with built-in lighting equipment.
“Nearer My God To Thee.” This song must be recorded with these particular soloists. The beginning of this song, which is sung as a solo, is just so incredibly perfect for Merlin Brouwer’s voice with that sweet tone that he has. If he had sung the whole piece by himself I would have been happy. But when he was joined by Ben Bywater on the duet and then, even more so, by the rest (Rocco Tesei, Alex Gula, Alex Montoro, and Leo Barron) it elevated the music still further. The ending line by Rocco alone cannot be beat.
"Sanctus." Wow.
Leo Barron's's flawless descants on every song he did. He is a true asset to the group
"In Paradisum" had a stronger effect on me than last time. I loved it in Ely but this time I really felt connected to the song and Rocco Tesei’s singing was top notch. The song is still stuck in my head.

Leo Barron (center) with fellow soloists Oliver Mycka (L) and Samuel-Francis Collins.

For those seeing them on this tour I think that they will sound even better after this first concert!

Overall, it was a great experience and has done exactly what every Libera concert is supposed to do....make me smile. Cue: Romeo's recorder solo.—Surpinto

A REVIEW FROM JOHN45

It was 40 degrees in San Antonio yesterday. That’s 3 degrees above normal body temperature.
The Libera boys kept their cool and performed a well-received opening concert for a smaller than desirable but very appreciative audience last evening. Surpinto has already given an excellent review of the concert so I will only add a few personal observations.

Alex Gula’s voice has not “broken” in the usual sense but is deeper and has acquired an incredibly rich, warm and silky tone which I can only describe as like hot chocolate and makes his already moving performances of “How Great Thou Art” and “Wayfaring Stranger” even more so

One of my favourite performances of the evening was “I am the Day” with Alex Gula accompanied by Oliver Mycka and Peter Kielty. Chills and Goosebumps – but not because of the air-conditioning.
Another was “Nearer My God”. More brilliance from Merlin Brouwer who led, and was joined by Ben Bywater, Alex Gula, Alex Montoro, Rocco Tesei, and Leo Barron. As others have said – please record this group before it is too late.

We now have three descant specialists headed by Leo Barron (brilliant in “Voca Me”), Oliver Watt-Rodriguez(great "salvas") and Samuel-Francis Collins (“Stay with Me” and more).

On only his second concert and first tour Dominik Clarke is already wearing an individual mike and harmonised beautifully with Leo Barronin “Mysterium.”.I think we can expect great things from Dominik.

Newbie Dominik Clarke with Nathaniel Bates-Fisher (Photo by Patrick)

Unlike Surpinto, I could never tire of "Sanctus," which was the song that introduced me to Libera in the first place. For me, a Libera concert without it would be incomplete. Having said that, the new version is in my opinion the best ye
t.
My usual reaction to “Amazing Grace” is to wait for this tired old tune to be done and move on to the next one, but for some reason last evening’s performance made me see it in a completely different light and I am looking forward to hearing it again.

The speeches are an important part of the concert and strengthen the connection between the performers and the audience. A kind of bonding perhaps. They were all delivered very well and received much laughter (in the right places) and applause.

Koji Shinokubo and new soloist Daniel White (Photo by Patrick)

Newbies Ben Wevill and Johnny Gardner, with little ham
Koji Shinokubo,
(Photo by Patrick)

Thanks to all. See you in Plano.

29 July2018

Libera in Plano, TX

St Andrew United Methodist Church

Time: 6:00pm

On July 29th, Libera took part in the Sunday service at St Andrew United Methodist Church, singing "The Prayer" and "Joyful, Joyful."

Around this time two photos surfaced, posted originally on July 23rd, and taken at an interview by Xavier Ramirez who works for Higher Intentions Productions, based in Austin, Texas. Ramirez is quoted: "Just had a great interview with the young stars of the World famous Libera choir. They are performing at the Tobin center tomorrow. #tvinspires."

Xavier Ramirez, Leo Barron, Alex Gula, and Daniel White.

There was at this point no indication of when, where, or if the interview was to be aired.

Boys on Tour: Alex Gula (L) and Daniel White (cuddling teddy bear Fergus) relax on the bus.

REVIEW OF PLANO CONCERT BY frankstuart (Screencaps/photos by Patrick)

Just returned from the concert in Plano and it was beautiful. There were quite a few new faces from the 2017 Houston show and it was a pleasure to see the changes and growth in the group.

Unfortunately, it was not a great night for a couple of the older soloists - maybe they were tired, had too much Texas heat, had too much fun this afternoon, or perhaps it is due to that wonderful, mysterious time of life for a young man, but a couple of them seemed to be struggling with range, breath support, etc. Nevertheless, they stuck it out and performed the best they could as they made vital contributions to the performance.

As in any live concert (let alone one by a group of young boys!) there were a few slight problems balancing instruments, harmonies, and soloist or melody lines. I was seated in the tenth row so it may have been better further back. It is a tribute to the performers that they were able to carry on through these minor adversities and stun the audience with their musicality and poise. For example, on one song in the second half, there was a miscue with the instruments before the singers entered. Mr. Prizeman had to stop the music and begin again. It did not faze the boys at all. I didn't notice one of them even bat an eye at the problem. Discipline and practice led the way!

Just a few highlights of the evening:

The opener ("Mysterium") was fantastic. I had never heard it before and was amazed. It was ethereal and haunting with enchanting and wonderful harmonies and a great solo by Leo Barron.

There was a switch in the program with "The Prayer" being performed before "In Paradisum."

The arrangement for "Sanctus" was new and will be on the new release. It is different and follows the original piece more closely. It was very enjoyable to hear!

As has been said by some who were at the San Antonio concert - it would certainly be a shame if the sextet on "Nearer My God To Thee" were not recorded. It certainly was one of the highlights of the entire evening and it is possible that some of these performers may not be with Libera very much longer (at least in a performing capacity). The audience certainly loved it and appreciated the work of these gifted singers.

I believe that one of the greatest moments of the night was the encore of "America the Beautiful!" From the moment they began the piece, there was an intensity and brilliance to it that the audience was enthralled. The performers' faces seemed to shine with love and appreciation for the audience's response to their efforts and dedication to their art. The group received a resounding standing ovation that continued for several minutes during which they boys took several bows before leaving the stage.

As always, the Meet and Greet was another highlight of the evening. Getting to know a few of the newer boys was great. Of course, they were all perfect gentlemen and captivated those in line who had never been to one of their concerts before. For those of us who have experienced this Libera Phenomenon before, it still amazes us what cultured young men they are.

I can only hope and pray that they are received at their other performance venues with an equal amount of respect and appreciation!

Fan Egorbea2018 submitted a marvelously detailed review on the Libera Dreams Forum:

My review of the Concert:

Greeting by Peter Kielty (12 years old) and Alex Gula (13 years old).

Mysterium – Leo Barron in descants with harmonies by Dominik Clarke

Joyful, Joyful – the usual fun performance

The Prayer – newbie Daniel White did the solo. Wow. We can expect great things from him. He was better than Isaac London who is my favorite. Daniel’s performance was flawless and full of emotion. All boys were kneeling behind him at the beginning of the song. The song had the same staging as when Isaac did it in Washington D.C. In the programme this song came after In Paradisum.

In Paradisum – Rocco Tesei did the solo with his rich, mature voice. He was wonderful. He needs a longer song to showcase his fantastic voice.

Stay With Me – Oliver Mycka soloist, Samuel Francis Collins on the descant. Oliver has a sweet, shy voice. That is a very high part. He follows two great singers Joe Platt and Ed Day. Samuel did great, clear descants.

Ave Maria – the short Caccini version – Merlin Brouwer soloist. He was a little nervous and missed a few notes but it was still beautiful. His voice is perfect for this song.

How Great Thou Art – Alex Gula did the solo with his usual silky voice. His voice is much lower but it has a rich, velvety sound that is both moving and pleasing.

Smile – Victor Wiggin soloist and Alex Montoro on the low harmonies – I liked their voices better than the original with Gabriel and Alessandro. Victor was very serious, obviously concentrating. Romeo was very good with his recorder. You could see him waiting for his part to come, looking intently at Mr. Prizeman. Alex was smooth and perfect for this song. He has a very pleasing voice. He is very sure of himself.

Speech – Koji Shinokubo and Daniel White introduced a new version of Voca Me before “we sail away,”,which introduced Orinoco Flow.

Voca Me – Leo Barron did the incredibly high descants perfectly. Leo was wonderful in this song. His voice is different from Tom Delgado-Little, but also great. This version does not have the Lacrymosa part I like so much. I prefer the original version. Victor Wiggin and Peter Kielty were in the front facing each other and Ben Bywater a little behind in the middle of them.

Orinoco Flow – same as usual

Interval

I am the day – Alexander Gula soloist with Oliver Mycka and Peter Kielty on harmonies and the whispered parts. Alex was outstanding on this song. He has a velvety smooth flawless voice full of emotion. His voice has matured and he sounds even better than he did last year. Another fan mentioned this was his favorite of the night, and it was mine too. I even told Alex how great he was when I saw him at the meet & greet. He was better, in my opinion, than Libera greats Ben Crawley and Josh Madine. This was the best performance of the night.

Speech – Alex Gula and Tadgh Fitzgerald talked about Moose. They said someone from the audience took him and Libera would not start singing until he was returned. They said Moose had travelled the world with them and had a Twitter account.

From a distance – Merlin Brouwer soloist – as usual a flawless performance. Merlin is incredibly talented and has a sweet, gentle voice.

Wayfaring Stranger – Alex Gula soloist – Wow. He just gets better every time he sings it. It started with a flute solo and Alex Gula in the back but there was not V formation in the front. There were too many boys to do the v, it was almost a double v but at the dramatic end instead of sharpening the v around Alex they were all behind him in a big cluster.

Amazing Grace – Peter Kielty soloist – he has a nice voice – I hope he gets other solos. In a kneeling circle were Mathias Montoro, Alex Gula, Ben Bywater, Merlin Brouwer, Rocco Tesei, Peter Kielty, Oliver Mycka, Tadgh Fitzgerald, Victor Wiggin, Oliver Watt (maybe), and Leo Barron

Sanctus – new version. I liked it better than the one they did in Washington D.C. I did not notice who did the descant.

Salva Me – Oliver Watt-Rodriguez descant – He did great salvas and he was loud enough for everyone to enjoy.

Eternal Light – Benedict Bywater soloist, Oliver Watt-Rodriguez doing harmonies. They sounded wonderful – this is a beautiful song last done by Stefan Leadbeater and Ralph Skan.

Near my God to thee – a capella song not in the programme – incredibly moving and gorgeous voices. In front of Mr. Prizeman with the rest of the boys in semi darkness, six boys did this beautiful song by themselves. Merlin Brouwer, Benedict Bywater, Alex Gula, Alex Montoro, Rocco Tesei, and Leo Barron. Merlin started it and then was joined by Ben in harmonies. Later Alex Gula joined them and then the rest of the six. At the end Rocco sings by himself. His voice is so pure and perfect. I hope this song is in the new album with these singers.

Libera – duet Alex Gula and Rocco Tesei – wonderful as usual. Rocco did the high notes. This was supposed to be the last song.

All boys bowed and got a very long standing ovation.

Encore: America the Beautiful – brilliant as usual with bright red lights at the end and powerful instrumental accompaniment.

Another standing ovation as soon as the song ended. This time Victor Wiggin came to the front and with his radiant smile, pointed to the musicians, with both hands, so we would clap for them. Then, Mr. Prizeman climbed the stage to thunderous applause after Victor pointed at him. Then Victor waved good bye and all boys waved and left the stage.

I don’t remember when these speeches happened.

Speech – Victor Wiggin and Alexander Menuet about their robes. Victor put the hood on and made funny gestures. Alex explained about the robes.

Speech in different languages: Alex Gula – Poland, Victor Wiggin and Alexandre Menuet – France, Oliver Watt-Rodriguez – Spain, Theo Wood – Mexico, Tadgh Fitzgerald – Ireland, Mathias Montoro – Italy, Koji Shinukobo – Japan. Peter Kielty who presented them and explained the countries for each, mentioned he was half American and everyone clapped.

Speech – Johnny Gardner talked about Libera with someone else.

At the programme signing all the boys were polite and grateful, some shy like Romeo and Marc, some very friendly like Johnny, Daniel, and Leo. They all looked tired.

It was an amazing concert. I can't wait to see them again at Crystal Cathedral!

LIBERA IN SAN FRANCISCO
St. Ignatius Church
July 31st
8:00 PM

Taichi Shinokubo, Johnny Gardner and Theo Wood

03 August 2018

Libera in Los Angeles, CA

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

REVIEW OF LOS ANGELES CONCERT BY maartendas

The concert in LA was my first Libera concert across the pond, and in some ways it felt like my first ever Libera concert. There were so many impressions and it all went by in a flash. Also I was seated in the first row, which had not happened since my first concert in 2009. This spot was just perfect and I thank those who helped save my spot in the line!

There was a really good crowd last night, young and old. Not sure if it was sold out but it looked like a full house. The merchandise was set up in the cathedral gift shop (already a few days before the concert) and afterwards it was pretty crowded there, many people buying something to sign in the line-up.

Before I give my impressions of the concert, there is some good news: "Nearer my God to Thee" was filmed last night! So a recording now exists, however, what will happen to it I don't know. Hopefully we will get to see it someday. Until then, it's very nice to know that those voices have been preserved.

So, concert impressions!

"Mysterium" started off and I was still bewildered to be where I was The ooh's in the intro sounded lovely and mysterious and Leo Barron's high parts were spot on.

"Joyful Joyful" sounded good, just very well done. With the lights on the boys' faces I thought I detected some fatigue, but it was not audible in their singing.

My first highlight was "In Paradisum." There is something about that song that gets to me like very few other songs. Rocco Tesei sings his solo crystal-clear and with urgency. The first chorus, with the word Jerusalem, really moved me, with the big lights reflecting on the cathedral floor.

"The Prayer" next, which caused the first wet eyes of the night for me. Daniel Whiteis really growing into his role on the stage and it's obvious he's enjoying every bit of it.

"Stay With Me" was the song I hoped for most and Oliver Mycka sang his solo wonderfully. His voice has a clear shine to it which reminds me of gold. He delivers his solo in his own style, very controlled and centered. The high parts by Samuel-Francis Collins formed a nice pairing with that. All in all a great fresh take on this Libera classic.

"Ave Maria" followed and this felt like a genuine prayer to me. Merlin Brouwer sang with calm and great sensitivity and the choir sounded exceptionally powerful and colourful. Again wet eyes.

No time to recover as "How Great Thou Art" followed which also has emotional meaning to me. Alex Gula was able to bring that to life with his beautiful deep round voice.

After this rollercoaster of emotion "Smile" was a welcome gentle breather, enhanced beautiully by Alex Montoro's deep notes.

The first half finished with this theme of contrast, with "Voca Me" and "Orinoco Flow." "Voca" was performed flawlessly and the buildup to the climax took my breath away - more than any other time I heard this song live.

"Orinoco" was sung with joy and gusto and again the choir sounded very colourful. A great, fun, beautiful piece of music.

Just like at Ely, the interval came after what only felt like five minutes.

"I Am The Day" was great, all the dynamics were there. By now I noticed how rich the range of expression of this generation is. At one point the "alpha and omega" was sung so delicately I had the image of feathers floating on water, a sensation which was repeated in a couple of other songs.

"From a Distance" followed, sung very much 'together'. Merlin Brouwer seemed to really enjoy this solo. A great effort by all.

Then probably the greatest highlight of the concert came for me, at least in terms of emotion: "Wayfaring Stranger." This song got to me more than any other and carried significant meaning into my heart. Alex Gula, thank you for your beautiful, incredible solo.

"Amazing Grace" was sung elegantly and Peter Kielty's solo was lovely—like most of the performances this tour his solo has grown since Ely. Peter's voice is very gentle, as was Ralph Skan's or Michael Horncastle's in the past.

"Sanctus" was performed to perfection. I just love this new arrangement!

"Salva Me" next, with wonderful "Salva's" by Oliver Watt-Rodriguez in the mysterious dark blue light.

"Eternal Light" next - was there no end to the treats they were giving us? Almost not. I remember the clarinet sounding especially beautiful in this song and in fact the musicians deserve a mention as well. In the acoustics of the cathedral the music and the voices blended wonderfully, with just the right accent here and there, like the horn in "America the Beautiful" or the plucking strings in "Ave Maria."

Then it was time for "Nearer my God to Thee." Just thinking back on hearing the voices a capella and how they blended one by one gives me a sensation of goosebumps and a lump in my throat.

"Libera" signalled the end of the concert. It was the one song I have the least connection to so for me it did not feel like the grand finale it was probably intended to be. Or maybe I just started to feel sad it was almost over.

After a standing ovation "America the Beautiful" began and it was a joy to watch Dominik Clarkes's beaming face as he sang that song with all his heart.

Another standing ovation including a slightly bewildered Robert on stage, hailed as "maestro!" from the crowd.

What came next was my first ever proper M&G which is an experience in itself. I was able to thank Oliver Mycka and others for their performances. Special mention goes to Koji Shinokubo. He had mentioned in his speech how this was his first time so far away from home. So I told him that being in LA was for me the furthest I have ever been away from home and that I had travelled just to hear them sing. His reaction was priceless, completely "shocked" and smiling. Also, LeoBarron said "Respect!" when I told him I had come from the Netherlands and wrote that on my program.

Also nice was Ben Bywater's question which song I liked best - I loved how he threw me off by asking that. Also I was not allowed to say "Nearer my God" or "America the Beautiful." I finally settled for "Wayfaring Stranger" and told him and Oliver Mycka,who was also listening, that it was one of the songs that had brought tears to my eyes.

All in all this was a wonderful concert experience. I am also grateful for meeting some new fans, including ones I had only talked to online before, as well as being introduced to Eleanor Lewis.

Full of memories... And now a few days to let them sink in before the final concert of this tour.—maartendas.

ON AUGUST 5TH, a note from bachmalerfan:

Apparently they are singing in a couple church services this weekend at Calvary Community Church, where they did a concert last year: https://www.facebook.com/CalvaryWestlak ... =3&theater

Libera fan hiskeys posted two videos from last year's appearance at the Cavalry Westlake Church, including a lovely arrangement of "In Christ Alone" with the church's Worship Band.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZQajhvGGhA (How great Thou Art/Calvary Westlake Community Church/7-29-17/3:51)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5c_pqSnz1g (In Christ Alone/Libera with Cavalry Worship Band/7-29-17/5:00)

07August,2018

Libera in Garden Grove, CA

Christ Cathedral

Time: 7:30pm

REVIEW OF CHRIST CATHEDRAL CONCERT BY maartendas:

It has all gone by so quickly... As is often the case with great experiences. This was the last concert of the tour and my 2nd one. Knowing what was coming was new to me. It made me feel like an insider and I could focus more on individual details.

So, here are my impressions of the Christ Cathedral concert. Actually it was in the Arboretum of the cathedral, which is a separate chapel, since the cathedral itself is still under construction. The venue reminded me of Vallendar in terms of scale and atmosphere.

There was again a good crowd; seats were filled to the back and on the balcony. One lady had come out of the church service in the opposite building and asked if there was a concert. She ended up in line for a ticket. What a way to be introduced to Libera - by going to a live concert! Some front seats were taken by boys from the local choir and their families. Next to me sat a fan who was generous enough to buy me a program.

About the concert, some highlights:

Leo Barron was in great form throughout the night. Crispy clear and seemingly effortless. He later told me he felt that he had done well, which was how he had intended to end the tour.

Pre-concert: Soloist Ben Bywater, Laurence Taylor; soloists Oliver Watt-Rodriguez, Leo Barron and Daniel White. (Photo courtesy of Justin Chen)

Rocco Tesei was very strong as well, I thought. Especially (again) in "In Paradisum." He delivers that solo so powerfully. The whole song is great, it moves me every time.

"The Prayer" was done extremely well. It could have been packaged and sold to the public straight away. And it's a joy watching Daniel White sing; he radiates his own joy of being on stage. But not only that, he delivers his solo with great precision and has a very friendly voice.

"Stay With Me" has been a personal favourite since Ely and I enjoyed hearing it again as I thought Oliver Mycka did an even better job this time. It's one of those songs where the soloist grows in the performance over time.

I have mentioned soloists so far but what stood out to me as well was the overall choral sound. In "Ave Maria," the boys blended perfectly with the instruments and really made one sound all together. I closed my eyes ( as I often did this concert) and just bathed in that one whole sound.

Alex Gula moved me again with his solos in "How Great Thou Art" and "Wayfaring Stranger." His voice is deep and sensitive, as has been stated before, and he interprets the lyrics with great feeling.

The unexpected emotional highlight for me was... Smile! The simplicity of Victor Wiggin's's solo, his smile, his gentle voice and the lyrics just got to me. So much so that I was holding back tears... "Although a tear may be ever so near" was totally appropriate.

"Voca Me" and "Orinoco Flow" were performed with conviction yet again. I had a blast watching Daniel White's ear-to-ear grin as the intro of "Orinoco" made people realise what he had meant in his speech when he said they would "sail away."

The interval, again, came way too soon - but I was also happy to reflect how well the concert was going.

Sound check. (Photo courtesy of Justin Chen)

"I Am the Day" stirred me again. Another sensitive interpretation by Alex Gula.

"From a Distance" gave me goosebumps and for some reason felt more lively than before. It really shone.
All thro
ugh the second half the boys sounded solid ("Amazing Grace, " "Salva Me"). Again I feel I should mention Alex Gula being able to evoke images and feelings in "Wayfaring Stranger. "

The new "Sanctus" keeps growing on me as a cheerful, festive song.

Ben Bywater's voice in "Eternal Light" sounded richer than before. It was like a depth or shine to it was now revealed. I told him later that he has a wonderful instrument.

Closed my eyes again during "Nearer my God to Thee." What a treat. Rocco Tesei finished the song confidently.

The six singers of "Nearer My God to Thee:" Merlin Brouwer, Ben Bywater, Alex Gula, Alex Montoro, Rocco Tesei, Leo Barron.
(Photo courtesy of Justin Chen)

Then "Libera," which I enjoyed again, I felt happy and proud for the choir and everyone involved.
A standing ovation with loud cheers led into the encore which received applause before the closing chord had ended.

As I slowly recovered from the whole experience, I prepared for the meet & greet which was held outside on the square next to the Arboretum. A summer sky of stars, a lawn, a fountain and the warm air made this for me a lovely setting for the final chance on this tour to thank the boys and chat with them. I am very grateful for the fun and sometimes personal exchanges I was able to share. These moments add so much to the experience for fans, especially those who travelled a long way to see Libera. And I got the feeling the boys enjoyed it a lot too.

DETAILED REVIEW FROM Egorbea

August 7, 2018 at 7:30pm

When the boys came out to the stage there was no applause. Nobody cheered. The Christ Cathedral Arboretum was nearly full in the lower level, with some people in the second level. The boys positioned themselves and the music started.

Mysterium – The song was mysterious and intense. Leo Barron did his descant perched on the loft with a spotlight shining on him. His voice was crystal clear and powerful. When the song ended Mr. Prizeman motioned the boys to change positions before starting the next song without a pause.

Joyful Joyful – The lightness and cheerfulness of this signature Libera song, with Leo Barron doing all the high notes, created the happy mood that continued the rest of the concert.

Speech by Peter Kielty (12 years old) and Alex Gula (13 years old) welcoming us to the concert. They mentioned the next song would be by Daniel who is nine.

The Prayer – Daniel White standing in the middle front with all the other boys kneeling behind him. Daniel was outstanding. His clear, sweet voice made me misty-eyed. He smiled during his whole solo and he moved his head as he reached for those high notes he did so perfectly. He ended his performance with a beaming smile. Then came the thunderous applause.

In Paradisum – Rocco Tesei did the solo. Rocco’s voice gets better with every performance. His mature, soulful voice is a pleasure to hear. He was magnificent in this song. The music was too loud on this song. Leo Barron was doing harmonies.

Stay With Me – Oliver Mycka did the solo and Samuel-Francis Collins did the descant from up in the loft. Oliver has a sweet voice and Samuel did great on his descant. The lights were alternating purple and magenta.

Speech – Victor Wiggin and Alexandre Menuet. Victor with the hood on said they are from South London with Big Ben, King Cross Station where Harry Potter catches the train to Hogwarts. Alex explained about the robes and Victor jumped up to demonstrate, opening his arms and wearing his big smile.

Ave Maria – Merlin Brouwer did the solo. The boys were arranged in a big semicircle with Merlin in center. Merlin was clearly nervous during this song and he seemed to struggle reaching the high notes. It is possible his voice is lowering to the alto range since he is 12 or 13 years old now.

How great thou art – Alex Gula did the solo with his perfect, velvety smooth voice. This song was another audience favorite.

Smile – Victor Wiggin did the solo with his husky but sweet voice. He reminds me of his older brother Samuel who had the same kind of voice. Alex Montoro did the low harmonies with his great,tenor voice. Romeo Tesei played the recorder.

Speech – Koji Shinokubo said he is from Japan and said it is his first concert away from home and that his older brother is Taichi (who starts jumping from behind the tallest guys waving his arms). Daniel White mentions something about their robes. They mentioned the next song, Voca Me is in the new album Beyond and they say sail away (for "Orinoco Flow"0).

Voca Me – Leo Barron did the ultra-high descant from the loft. He voice was smooth, controlled, and perfect. Peter Kielty, Ben Bywater and Victor Wiggin stood in front. I heard the lacrymosa part I like this time. They did it towards the end of the song. Rocco Tesei did the high notes too, as part of the harmonies.

Orinoco Flow – It started with a big cluster of boys in middle of the stage with eight boys on each side angled. They were having fun with this one. They did the sharp movements and a lot of position changes during this song. Leo Barron did the high notes.

Interval

I Am the Day – Alex Gula did the fantastic solo demonstrating his greatness. Alex has matured as a singer in an outstanding way. He has complete control of his amazing voice, which appears to be in the alto range now. Hopefully they filmed his performance because, in my opinion, he is now one of Libera’s greatest singers. Oliver Mycka on his left and Peter Kielty on Alex’s right did the whispery parts. Leo Barron did the high notes.

Speech – Tadgh Fitzgerald holding moose talked about him. Alex Gula said it is the most travelled Moose. Alex did the moose kidnap joke again. Tadgh said they are going to Japan and Moscow on tour.

From a Distance – Merlin Brouwer did the solo. This is his song. He is comfortable and confident in his performance and he performed it flawlessly as usual.

Wayfaring Stranger – Alex Gula did the solo. The boys were doing a double line on each side. Flute started. Green lights. Alex in the middle at the back, went down the steps carefully until he was at the front and then he stopped. He did not go slowly as usual because of the steps. There was not a lot of space for him to walk. He stopped in the front during the whole last verse before the climax of the song when all the boys clustered behind him. Daniel was smiling and singing with gusto. Alex Gula was spectacular. His performance was powerful and a goosebumps moment for me. Even without the elaborate staging of past performances, this was the best song of the night for me (not counting "Nearer My God to Thee," 0of course).

Amazing Grace – The boys were kneeling in a circle of about eight in the front with the others standing behind them. Rocco Tesei did the solo. Peter Kielty was not feeling well. He told me at the meet and greet. This song was a crowd favorite judging from the long applause it got.

Speech in different languages: Alex Gula – Poland, Victor Wiggin and Alexandre Menuet – France, Oliver Watt-Rodriguez – Spain, Theo Wood – Mexico, Tadgh Fitzgerald – Ireland, Mathias Montoro – Italy, Koji Shinukobo – Japan. Peter Kielty who presented them and explained the countries for each mentioned he was half American and everyone clapped.

Sanctus – This new version has different verses and sounds more interesting than the original. Great song.

Salva Me – Oliver Watt-Rodriguez did the salvas from the loft with violet light on him. Great job Oliver!

Eternal Light – Ben Bywater was the soloist. Ben had a false start but kept his composure and continued beautifully. He is a professional at his tender age. He did not let a tiny mistake ruin his fantastic performance.

Near My God to Thee – Marvelous a Capella song not in the programme. Merlin Brouwer, Benedict Bywater, Alex Gula, Alex Montoro, Rocco Tesei, and Leo Barron did this song by themselves. I sat on the edge of my seat as if hypnotized by the perfection of it. I did not want it to end. Merlin started the first verse, then Ben joined him in beautiful harmonies. Next, Alex Gula joined them with his gorgeous alto voice. The rest of the song, the rest of the boys joined in. To end it Rocco did a masterful solo on the last verse. The crowd exploded in applause and it lasted a long time.

Speech – Johnny Gardner came out to the front and said thank you for coming to the concert and said a sharp goodnight.

Libera – Alex Gula and Rocco Tesei dueted, blending their perfectly smooth, mature, rich voices in a delightful performance. Rocco did all the high note harmonies. After the song Libera, came a standing ovation. Everyone, except those of us that had seen a concert this tour, thought the concert was over. So they gave a long standing ovation with lots of clapping. The boys bowed and smiled.

Then came the surprise. The musicians started playing and the audience sat down.

America the Beautiful – The boys were all smiling during this song, clearly enjoying the end of the concert and tour. Victor Wiggin and Daniel White had the biggest, sweetest smiles. When they finished, the audience again gave them a standing ovation with shouts of appreciation and lots of applause.

Victor Wiggin came to the front and with his radiant smile, pointed to the other boys and the musicians, with both hands, so we would clap for them. Mr. Robert Prizeman then came up and was properly appreciated by louder applause.

The venue – The Christ Cathedral Arboretum is a rectangular building with two levels. The floor is level so, the further back you are the less you can see the stage because the people in front of you block your view. I was in the sixth row and had trouble seeing past the tall people in front of me. The orchestra could have been a bit less intense since they were louder than the boys in a few songs. I suppose it was difficult for the boys to move around on the stage because of the three steps on it. At least the younger, shorter boys got a lift and looked taller when they were on the steps making it easier for us to see them.

At the meet at greet the boys were delightful, well mannered young men. The line was long and it was after 9:30pm when the boys sat down for signing, so there was not time for even a short conversation. I greeted each by name and thanked them for the specific song they did or for a great concert.

I want to thank the Libera sponsors, chaperones, and parents for making this USA Tour 2018 possible. Most of all, I want to thank the Libera boys and Mr. Robert Prizeman for sharing their extraordinary talents with us. God bless them all!—Egorbea

Final waves of goodbye and greetings and then it was really over. I will be going home with many precious memories - and wondering when I might see them again.—Maartendas

NEW INFORMATION ON BEYOND CD

On August 8th, fan Surpinto posted the following information on the Beyond CD:

Just to summarize the situation, we currently have audio samples on Amazon, Google Play, and iTunes of the new CD and it looks like we also have the final track list too.

I had trouble getting the iTunes link for any country other than the US. I think I may have succeeded in making it a generic link. But, as usual, iTunes has the longest sample tracks so I hope that everyone can access those.

Follow any one of the links to get the audio samples or to pre-order. If you use Amazon outside the UK or US please do a search for Amazon for "Libera Beyond" as I didn't want to have a million links here for every possible country. It also looks like the Japanese Amazon does not yet have audio samples.

(US Amazon) (UK Amazon) (Google Play) (iTunes)
https://itunes.apple.com/album/beyond/1421908835

Here is my commentary based on the samples. (Surpinto)

Ave Maria (Caccini)
New recording. Unknown soloist.

In Paradisum
New recording. We know Rocco Tesei is the soloist.

Salve Regina
New recording (to my personal shock!) with a new solo verse. Could it be Rocco again? He did a mini-solo on it on "Hope" so it stands to reason.

Sanctus
New recording and version per the UK and US concerts.

Ave Maria (Prizeman).
We know Merlin Brouwer is the soloist. Same arrangement as previously recorded.

Lacrymosa
New recording with Latin words replacing the English; in the past the words were half in English and half in Latin. Unknown soloist. I hear more than one soloist here.

Voca Me.
Same version as used on the UK and US concerts. Same melody as the prior versions but different words; again, per recent US and UK concerts.

The Prayer.
Same arrangement as the America album, but it is Daniel White on solo.

Do Not Stand At My Grave And Weep.
New recording. Unknown soloist. Sounds like the same arrangement as previous recordings.

Benedictus Deus
At first it sounded like it was the same recording as "Hope" but it is not! On the solo parts you can hear a new soloist. I compared side by side (with headphones) to be sure and, unless the mix on the new album is throwing me off, I am certain there is a new soloist here.

Fan Note: During this tour both John45 and Patrick Fandelok attended their 100th Libera Concert, Patrick in San Francisco and John in Garden Grove.

On August 12th, the comprehensive Libera Passion site updated its list of active singers, miniboys, and others to reflect the recent tour. It includes expanded sections on tour newbies Theo Wood, Cassius Collard, Koji Shinokubo, Johnny Gardner, Daniel White, Ben Wevill, and Dominik Clarke. Moose needs no introduction.

This is a screenshot; click on names highlighted in blue on the actual site for more photos and information on each singer.

http://libera-passion.exprimetoi.net/t1110-apercu-des-membres-actuels-maj-mai-2018

On August 15th, the indefatigable "Furby"of the Libera Passion site posted the following, This new site includes with photos, videos, lineup, setlists, soloists, reviews & more.

Hello all

I’m no regular poster here (although a fervent reader) but I thought this might be of interest.

Continuing the efforts of Inna at Libera’s World as well as Martin at libera-songs.de, I created a database on Libera concerts from the very first in Plymouth, back in 2000.

I tried to collect every piece of info and media that could be of interest regarding these concerts, including direct links to reviews – many of them from this very forum. Going through every concert thread was quite fastidious but enlightening (did you know that half of Arundel 2010 thread is actually discussing Yorkie’s blatant resemblance to Cary Grant ?)

I also linked every concert/tour to the corresponding threads at Libera Passion / Dream / Welt forums so that may come in handy in terms of navigation.

A big thank to all contributors who are taking time to share photos, videos, and reviews of their experiences – I tried to credit everyone whenever possible. Also thanks to fan_de_LoK for his careful specialist proofreading!

It’s still a WiP and will be updated regularly —The Furby

(Libera Trivia: "The Furby" was the in-group nickname of small-and-cute Joe Snelling (2006-2008)

http://libera-passion.exprimetoi.net/t1329-les-concerts-et-sorties-prestations-live-de-libera-2000-present (Listing by year of Libera Tours and Concerts)

On August 20th, the official announcement of the Beyond CD appeared on the Official Libera site, along with 33-second snippets at https://libera.org.uk/music/beyond/

On August 21st, Libera posted its official announcement of the upcoming concert in Moscow:

Libera in Moscow

Date: 28th December 2018 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Venue: Moscow Concert Hall "Zaryadye"
We are honoured to have been invited to perform as part of the opening season for the Zaryadye Concert Hall in Moscow.
Tickets: Available from the Zaryadye Box Office
Or Call: +7 (499) 222-00-00

On August 24th, Fredric Einstein, administrator of one of the most active unofficial Libera Facebook groups, posted the following article of interest:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2264629184/?multi_permalinks=10156567434674185&notif_id=1534966562380585&notif_t=group_highlights

On August 28th Libera posted a YouTube video of six soloists performing "Nearer My God to Thee" a cappella in the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles, CA.

L to R: Merlin Brouwer, Ben Bywater, Alex Gula, Alex Montoro, Rocco Tesei, Leo Barron

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56doiLyCQhY (Nearer My God To Thee/ performed a cappella by Libera at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, LA, on the 3rd August 2018/Merlin Brouwer, Ben Bywater, Alex Gula, Alex Montoro, Rocco Tesei, Leo Barron/3:25)

BEYOND INFORMATION

On August 31st, fan aboa posted the following on the Libera Dreams Forum:

Today Libera-Records has updated more information of Beyond (Japanese version) on the website.
https://libera-records.com/news/2018/08/31/658/

A cover and track list has been announced.

The order of songs is same as UK ver. In addition, these includes "To tomorrow ~ for the future (明日へ～for the future)" in the last track.

The DVD of normal edition includes 2 music videos: "Lacrymosa" and "In Paradisum".

The Fan Club Edition can only be purchased by fan club members.
It comes with a booklet which includes many photos. Its total number of page is 36.
However, I do not know whether the Fan Club Edition will be available or not from overseas.

More info in English, about the content: http://forum.libera-dreams.com/viewtopic.php?f=37&t=3006&start=150 … https://twitter.com/fan_de_LoK/status/1035563791289868288/photo/1pic.twitter.com/fkAc3iMYnP

WESTMINSTER CATHEDRAL CONCERT ON OCTOBER 17TH

Source : https://libera.org.uk/news/libera-in-we ... cathedral/

On September 3rd, Libera released a lovely, if somewhat enigmatic, video of "In Paradisum," with the superb Rocco Tesei as soloist. It was filmed at the Othona Community and the Chapel of St Peter-on-the-Wall, Bradwell-on-Sea, Essex. Music by Ben Robbins

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=2&v=JmO2KlRim6c (In Paradisum/Solo by Rocco Tesei/filmed at the Othona Community and the Chapel of St Peter-on-the-Wall, Bradwell-on-Sea, Essex. Music by Ben Robbin/September 3^rd, 2018/3:30)

On September 8th, Patrick tweeted an interesting interactive aspect of the then-upcoming Japan Tour:

You can ask Libera a question on twitter of Instagram using the hashtag #リベラっ子への質問 Some of the questions will be selected and be printed with the boys's answers on the program that will be sold at the concerts in Japan in October. (Note on Kajimoto News site below

【#LIBERA】#リベラっ子への質問 Large recruitment! "LIBERA Angel Voices Tour" "Beyond" "will recruit questions to members who will be featured in the brochure! The content is 👍 posted with a hashtag to the question on Twitter or Instagram anything ok #リベラっ子への質問! 9/10 (Mon) until 12:00.

On September 12th, Patrick added to his Japan-tour information

The above is a screenshot; here's the Google search link:

https://www.google.fr/search?q=osaka+city+central+hall&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X …

@Kajimoto_News

On September 15th, Libera released a 4:33 introductory video for the Beyond CD. Narrated charmingly by new little soloist Daniel White, the video contains snippets of all the songs on the album, intercut with scenes of performances and activities on the 2018 US summer tour, as well as preview scenes from the DVD version of "Lacrymosa," and a look at the shooting of "In Paradisum." (Screenshots below are from the "Lacrymosa" video.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TttaYtsZTU (Libera Beyond—An introduction to the album/4:33)

On September 18th Libera tweeted a poster and a new (:35) promotional video for the Westminster Cathedral concert.

https://youtu.be/loQHJiAp9DY (2018 Westminster Cathedral promo video/:35)

On September 21st, a graphic appeared for an interesting event to be included on the upcoming Japan tour:

On September 22nd, a review of Beyond, published on a site called Cross Rhythms indicated that a Christmas concert in the UK would take place before the group travelsto perform one in Moscow on December 28th. In a slight confusion, the reviewer stated that "Salve Regina" would appear on the Beyond CD. It can be found on the previous release, Hope.

crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/news/Spiritual_Musical_Experience/63691/p1/ …

By September 24th, there were a number of exchanges on the Libera Dreams Forum concerning the identities and number of the boys who would be on the Beyond Japan tour.

James010101: I just discovered that under the 'Libera Profile' tab on the Japanese fansite, the profile pictures of the following Libera boys were featured:

1. Alex Gula
2. Alexandre Menuet
3. Benedict Bywater
4. Daniel White
5. Dominik Clarke
6. Koji Shinokubo
7. Leo Barron
8. Mathias Montoro
9. Merlin Brouwer
10. Neo Parson
11. Oliver Mycka
12. Oliver Watt-Rodriguez
13. Peter Kielty
14. Rocco Tesei
15. Romeo Tesei
16. Samuel-Francis Collins
17. Tadhg Fitzgerald
18. Victor Wiggin

Is it safe to assume that only these 18 boys will be appearing in the Japanese tour?

Patrick Fandelok: My gosh, you are right!

That 'profiles' tab must be something new, I didn't see it before.
The photos are terrible btw, with that white wall behind them it look like police mugshots.
These 18 names match the 18 involved on the recording for the Japanese song, which was already a sign.With now the Profile section that limits also the names to the same 18, it is likely the tour group.

At this time it was still possible, though complicated, to join the Japanese Fan Club.

Screenshot of Japanese Libera Fan Club Site

Remember that you will be asked to provide a Japanese mail address. Mine comes from tenso.com
For the name, you have to enter it both. First, you can use romanji (our latin alphabet). For the second you have to use katakana letters. You can translate your name to katakana using many free sites. Just google for it.—Patrick Fandelok

https://liberafc.jp/s/n75/?ima=3852 (Japanese Libera Fan Club)

By September 28th, it was reported that ticket sales for the upcoming Japan tour were brisk, with at least one event, the October 21st concert at the 1800-seat Shinjuku Cultural Center in Tokyo, completely sold out, and others not far behind.

On October 6th, an official announcement from Libera:

LIBERA, the internationally famed boys’ choir,

release their brand-new album ‘Beyond’ on 12th October.

In 11 tracks of glorious choral sounds, the boys demonstrate the extraordinary range and emotional depth of their voices. Familiar classics mingle with original material in new arrangements accompanied by full orchestra or acapella.

This wonderful new album is but the latest step on the incredible Libera journey to take their listeners on an inspirational journey, ‘Beyond’ anything they have heard before!

On October 7th, a note on the Libera Dreams Forum from fan James010101:

Kajimoto have officially released the opening times and other details regarding the souvenir booths and autograph session for each concert. Below are the (roughly translated) salient information for fans who are attending any of the concerts:
Opening times
1 hour before official venue opening time for each performance
1. Tokyo Performance
Venue: Shinjuku Cultural Center Great Hall 10/21 (Sunday)
15: 00 ~ 15: 45 (Venue opens at 16: 00 / Performance starts at 17: 00) 10/22 (Monday)
17: 00 ~ 17: 45 (Venue opens at 18: 00 / Performance starts at 19: 00)
2. Nagoya Performance
Venue: Zepp Nagoya

Above and below: Two views of Zepp Nagoya Concert Hall

10/24 (Wednesday)
17: 00 ~ 17: 45 (Venue opens at 18: 00 / Performance starts at 19: 00)

3. "LIBERA Spooky Halloween Party supported by Glico LIBERA" 10/25 (Thur) There is no advance sales at "LIBERA Spooky Halloween Party Supported by Glico LIBERA".
4. Osaka Performance
Venue: Osaka International Conference Center (Grand Cube Osaka) 10/26 (Fri)
17: 00 (Venue opens at 18: 00 / Performance starts at 19: 00)
-- You may purchase goods during the "early sale" period even if you do not have a concert ticket.
-- Osaka performance - You may purchase goods until the end of the show even if you do not have a concert ticket.

Autograph session - Requirements
1. Concert ticket for that day's performance
2. Autograph session ticket (obtained through purchase of souvenirs (minimum 2000 yen spending) at the venue's souvenir booth / Shibuya Tsutaya )
Details regarding the autograph session

1. After the show, please bring your autograph session ticket and bring it in the waiting queue which could be in the lobby of the venue.
(The autograph session may take place at a different place depending on the venue so please check on the day itself)
2. Tickets will be collected at the time of arrangement. Be sure to bring your ticket and arrange for it to be collected at the autograph session.
3. Participation is limited to once per person per performance. Even if you have more than one ticket, you cannot join multiple times per performance. However, it is possible to use the tickets at other performances.

4. Only one item will be signed by all members. A single member cannot sign multiple items.
5. However, regardless of the content, it is not necessary to be a commodity subject to distribution of participating tickets. ただし内容は問わず、参加券配布対象商品ではなくても構いません。 (No idea what this means, and google translate did not help either)
6. Libera members will be separated into groups, as such, you may not be able to obtain autographs from each Libera member. In addition, you are not allowed to select a specific group to obtain signatures from.
7. Please refrain from taking commemorative photographs with the members during the autograph session as it will interfere with the operation of the autograph session. It is, however, acceptable to shoot photographs from the queue while you are in line.

LIBERA Spooky Halloween Party supported by Glico LIBERA
1. It is an exchange event with members who can not enjoy regular performances as a first Halloween party. 初めてのハロウィンパーティーということで、通常公演では味わえないメンバーとの交流ができる催しを予定しています。(Not quite sure what this means)
2. There is no schedule of singing.
3. Disguise is an arbitrary thing that excites the atmosphere, so you can enjoy it without having to do it.
I hope I haven't mis-translated anything. Happy to hear from fellow fans who have a better working knowledge of Japanese.

On October 10th, Libera posted a YouTube sampler of the songs on the Beyond CD, featuring longer samples than are available elsewhere online.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYDWO1zD4gM&feature=youtu.be (Libera Official sampler of songs on Beyond CD/12:57)

Also appearing on that date was a video posted by Libera Records Japan with the first two minutes or so of "For the Future," which appears on the Japanese edition of Beyond. It marks the first extended solo video appearances of Oliver Watt-Rodriguez and Daniel White, both singing in Japanese.

Daniel White (L)and Oliver Watt-Rodriguez in "For the Future."

https://libera-records.com/news/2018/10/10/735/ (Video sample of For the Future from the Japanese edition of the Beyond CD/solos by Oliver Watt-Rodriguez and Daniel White/2:06)

A TWEET FROM LIBERA ALUMNUS MATT MADINE

REVIEW OF BEYOND CD BY SURPINTO

Ave Maria (Caccini)
I must say that I am impressed with Gabriel Collins. This is no easy song and requires hitting a few high notes quickly and accurately. The arrangement is good and distinct. Nothing else to say other than it is a very solid performance in line with the high standard of the prior version by Tom Cully.

Gabriel Collins

In Paradisum
Since we had the music video first and this piece was also sung in concerts, we know the song already. But that does not make the song any less powerful when listening again and again and again. Rocco Tesei’s voice leads the song masterfully and the piece is very touching and elevating. A favorite on the album for me; this piece simply cannot be denied its rightful place as a fan favorite ever since it was sung in Ely 2018.

Rocco Tesei

Salve Regina
This new arrangement adds an amazing solo part by Rocco Tesei to the piece. Some stated when Hope came out that, while they enjoyed the piece, it was a bit slow and repetitive for them. I disagreed with them at the time though I understood why they felt this way. With this new iteration it certainly cannot be argued that this issue has been left unresolved. With a new introductory solo and what sounds like a redo of the Hope solo at the end, I think that this song has now had new life breathed into it. Excellent.

Sanctus
Ah, the obligatory “Sanctus”, how predictable, tired, and boring right? My perennial complaint that they need to stop putting this song on every single album they release has not been heard; and for once I am glad that I have been ignored. Libera has managed to renew this song for me with the new verse which adds a new twist to this all too familiar piece. The new verse actually sounds quite intimate in its recording; my guess being that they used a smaller number of boys than usual and maybe a closer microphone or set of microphones. I’m no audio or sound recording expert so I could be wrong, but whatever they did just makes the song sound more amazing.

Ave Maria (Prizeman)
Those of us who have heard this in concert know that Merlin Brouwer does an excellent job on this song and this recording is no different as he has a very distinct voice with a rather pure tone. The recording is actually distinct from the live version. Particularly the instrumentation here is interesting with what sounds like a violin whose strings are being plucked or more likely a harp beginning at 2:50 which starts as a transition for the last section of the song. The song is well done and the instrumentation unique. The live version was good and there is less power/projection on the solo verses than in concerts (which is to be expected), but this album version comes with all of the necessary polish we would expect.

Merlin Brouwer

Lacrymosa
With Alex Gula’s lower voice the song is markedly different from previous studio album recordings (Luminosa and Peace). Ben Crawley on the former and Ben Phillipp on the latter have a softer, sweeter, and higher tone to their voices which makes the singing a bit incongruous with the very weighty words about crying out to heaven for help out of fear and terror. The mood is suitably darker and at first I was put off by it because I am accustomed to the previous versions, but after a second listen I was totally hooked. An effective counterbalance is created between Alex’s lower voice on the one hand, and the choir as a whole combined with Leo Barron’s higher notes on the other. This serves to create a very mysterious effect that elevates this song for me. A very good refresh on this old, but certainly not tired, Libera song.

Alex Gula

Voca Me
This is the same version sung in recent concerts and has distinctive high notes. The lyrics have been changed to all Latin and, while the melody may seem a bit different due to where the emphasis on the new Latin words falls, the melody remains unchanged. This is another successful reboot of a fan favorite. Good job Leo Barron!

The Prayer
An excellent piece sung very well by Daniel White. The last time we heard this song recorded was by Isaac on the live album “Libera in America” and Daniel is a worthy successor to that solo part both in recent concerts and on this album. We have discussed this song and Daniel’s excellent solo a lot after the recent concerts at this forum so I will not add anything more as my personal appreciation and enjoyment of this song has already been expressed.

Daniel White

Do Not Stand At My Grave And Weep
This song is an exact duplicate in terms of the arrangement as Free. It is a peaceful and calming piece. Gabriel Collins’ solo, and what I assume are Leo Barron’s high notes, are solid.

Benedictus Deus
A beautiful song for sure. The arrangement and everything else, aside from the soloist, is identical to the Hope album so any comparison can only speak to that difference alone. While Thomas Delgado-Little was arguably one of Libera’s best soloists in terms of his pure tone and ability, this version certainly compares to that one. Having listened to both side by side, including the solo parts alone, I am at a loss to choose a favorite version of this song. That fact in and of itself speaks volumes for how well Leo Barron measured up on this piece. Excellent.

Leo Barron

Mother of God
Last heard on Eternal, this song, which sounds like it is sung acappella, is incredibly peaceful and touching. The arrangement appears identical to the previous version although the recording quality is a tad higher. I am glad that this song is being reintroduced as the peaceful quality it brings definitely makes it a go-to for when I am feeling stressed and need the comfort of music to alleviate the same.

Overall, the album is solid. When I originally saw the track list I was disappointed by the repeat songs, but these reboots, new soloists, and new arrangements have surpassed my expectations. Well done, Libera, on another new album. I will be listening to many of these songs constantly from now on!—Surpinto

Another long-time fan, filiarheni, also wrote a fine review of Beyond, which can be found at:

http://www.forum.libera-dreams.com/viewtopic.php?f=37&p=53394#p53394

In it, she re-examines a long-held question as to the authorship of the "Ave Maria" usually attributed to Giulio Caccini.

One side remark about the piece itself: It is highly doubted that the composer is actually Giulio Caccini (1551 - 1618). More probable is an authorship by Vladimir Vavilov (1925 - 1973). Vavilov used to sign compositions with baroque composers' names. The reason is guessed to be his safety in a Communist system which didn't allow this kind of music, but obviously there exists also a quotation by his daughter saying that her father didn't believe that music under his own name (unknown, banal) would ever be published and so he credited any former composers. This "Ave Maria" was apparently published under "Anonymous" by himself and after he had died, someone ascribed it to Caccini. As far as I've seen it wasn't even intended to be an Ave Maria.
I'm not entirely sure, but - also for some other reasons - I lean towards believing in Vavilov's authorship. —Filiarheni

For those interested, here is one of the relevant links.
http://www.musicaantigua.com/el-engano-musical/

CHRISTMAS CONCERT ANNOUNCED

On October 15th, an hour-long interview with Robert Prizeman and three members of Libera (Alex Gula, Leo Barron, and Daniel White) was posted on a website called Music From the Tower, hosted by the enthusiastic John Romeri, music director of Christ Cathedral in Los Angeles. The broadcast included both the Cacchini and Prizeman "Ave Maria,""Lacrymosa," "The Prayer," and "Sanctus," all from the new Beyond CD.

L t R: Daniel White, Alex Gula, John Romeri, Robert Prizeman, Leo Barron.

https://soundcloud.com/surpinto/music-from-the-tower-summer-2018-with-libera

WESTMINSTER CATHEDRAL CONCERT

(Photo by Yuki)

On October 17th, 46 past, present and future Libera singers, including a number of recent alumni, took the stage in Westminster Cathedral.

(Program Photos by Patrick)

Here are the songs and soloists of the 1st part. Surprise, with BOTH "Ave Maria"s. Caccini's soloist is Leo Barron. New soloist on "How Great Thou Art" with Oliver Watt-Rodriguez -R. My highlight so far is still "In Paradisum."—Patrick Fandelok

New soloist Oliver Watt-Rodriguez

(Photo by andmar)

Danielle Tweeted:

"I am the Day" with Dominik Clarke and Peter Kielty was really good. Victor Wiggin on "Wayfaring Stranger" and "Smile," which was also the encore.

The second part of the concert brought many changes and wonderful performances—Patrick

Yuki Tweeted:

Loved "Lamentione" - lots of lower voices - Isaac London, Matt Madine, Matt Jansen, Ciaran Bradbury-Hickey, Sam Wiggin, Gabriel Collins, Alex Gula, Taichi Shinokubo, and Ali's (Alessandro Mackinnon-Botti's) great solo!

A photo from the final bowing They were divided into 3 groups: - main group of 33: same as US tour minus Theo Wood, plus Ethan Barron, Calam Virk Tamana, Jack Spicha & Nicholas Taylor. Lower voices group: Alessandro Mackinnon-Botti, Matthew Jansen, Ciaran Bradbury-Hickey, Matthew Madine, Sam Wiggin, Isaac London, Alex Montoro, Gabriel Collins. Five miniboys: Luke Batteson-Dalpiaz, Luca Brugnoli, Laurence Davey, Felipe Jackson, Frederick Mushrafi.—Patrick

A REVIEW BY JOHAN
(Photos when available)
Westminster 17th October 2018.

This was a special concert of farewell to the older generation of Libera boys and a welcome to a new generation. It was not announced as such, but that was how it was experienced by me.

The older generation with their lower voices stood at the back of the stage and behind the boys with the higher voices. They were Ciaran Bradbury-Hickey, Gabriel Collins, Alexander Gula, Matthew Jansen, Isaac London, Alessandro Mackinnon-Botti, Matthew Madine, Alex Montoro, Taichi Shinokubo and Samuel Wiggin. And they were not there just for show; they played an important part in the performance of many (but not all) songs.

And of course to take their places a new generation of young singers was present. I do not mean the new soloists, about them later. I mean the miniboys. For most of the songs they joined the main choir, which means they were only seldom separated and seated to the side.

(Front, Left to Right:) Alex Montoro, Victor Wiggin, Camden Stuart, Oliver Mycka,Tadgh Fitzgerald, ?, Samuel=Francis Collins, Johnny Gardener, Oliver Watt-Rodriguez, Dominik Clarke, Leo Barron, Neo Parson. (Photo by Sébastien)

In all there had never before been that many boys on stage as this concert, 46 (according to the programme, I did not count) in all. Amongst them several brother pairs: Barron, Collins, Montoro, Shinokubo, Taylor, Tesei and Wiggin.

The concert started traditionally with the boys coming up to the music on the flute and in near darkness, only blue lights illuminating the high altar, Then "Mysterium, "one of my favorites, well executed and with descants by Leo Barron. He can still do it, although his speaking voice now is noticebly lower.

Continuing without much interruption with "Joyful, Joyful." I could not see well enough (I was seated at the end of the row to the right) who the descants did. It looked like it was Alex Montoro, but that is impossible. Some of the boys (notably Oliver Mycka had cut his hair short, shame on you Oliver) had changed their hairstyle, which made it more difficult to recognise them.

"The Prayer, " expertly done by Daniel White. He was standing in the center, most of the choir kneeling around and behind him. The big boys in the rear also standing, an impressive sightwith so many boys. I found it interesting to notice how a shy little boy like Daniel changes into a self confident young man doing solos for a cathedral full of people. The performance of this song was fantastic and made me emotional, like Isaac London did in the recent past.

(Front, Left to Right:) Nathaniel Bates-Fisher, Adam Izghouti, Taichi Shinokubo, Alex Gula,Marc Alvares, Alex Montoro, Camden Stuart, Samuel-Francis Collins, Johnny Gardener. (Back Row:) Alessandro Mackinnon-Botti, Matthew Jansen, Ciaran Bradbury-Hickey,Matt Madine, Sam Wiggin, Isaac London. (Photo by Sébastien)

The first speech was then made by Peter Kielty and Joseph Cranich. They welcomed us and introduced the choir.

"Ave Maria" was done traditionally, I did not notice any new arrangement here. The solo was done by Merlin Brouwer, he did OK, but probably he himself was not content because his voice is starting to break and he was not as sure as usual.

"Stay With Me" was next. From my position it looked like the solo was done by Victor Wiggin, but was later told it was Oliver Mycka, with similar hair styles now they are difficult to recognise. The descant was by Samuel-Francis Collins

Then another "Ave Maria;" this was extra and not in the programme. This time the solo was by Leo Barron, still going strong.

"In Paradisum" next. I'm starting to like it, when the video came out I had some getting-used-to-it feelings. The solo was done again by Rocco Tesei. True to his name (Rocco in Italian means rock) he was solid as a rock and to me now the first soloist of Libera.

Then the next speech by Alexandre Menuet and Victor Wiggin about their hoods and robes and about London.

"How Great Thou Art." Well done by a new soloist, Oliver Watt-Rodriguez, and contributions by the lower voices from behind. Looking forward to hearing more from Oliver.

"Voca Me" in a new arrangement ,sounding great. Leo Barron did the descants from high up behind the choir. The low voices of the big boys added an extra dimension to the song.

Koji Shinokubo and Daniel White then talked about their white robes, the coming tour to Japan and announced the interval after "Orinoco Flow." This song also had some new elements in it, the big boys had already disappeared.

(Front Row, L to R:) Peter Kielty, Rocco Tesei, Neo Parson, Victor Wiggin, Tadgh Fitzgerald, Calam Virk Tamana, ?, Alexandre Menuet, Dominik Clarke, ?, OLiver Watt-Rodriguez, Leo Barron, Daniel White. (Photo by Sébastien)

The first song after the interval was "Lamentione." With the boys coming up in darkness this song was well chosen. The trebles kneeled and the big boys stood behind them. It was a memorable performance by all. The low voices of the big boys made the difference, especially the excellent solo by Alessandro Mackinnon-Botti. The laments from Leo Barron high up in the background added to the already fascinating performance.

Without interuption they continued with "I Am the Day." Again a new soloist, Dominik Clarke, a soloist I would like to hear more from, he did very well. He was assisted by Peter Kielty and Oliver Mycka. They ended whispering like Josh Madine etc. did on the Leiden DVD.

The first speech after the interval and now Moose was introduced as a world traveller by Tadhg Fitzgerald and little Cassius Collard.

"From a Distance." I do not like the text of this song at all, but it was done beautifully by Merlin Brouwer with support by Leo Barron.

"Wayfaring Stranger" was next and started with a long flute solo and without the big boys. The others were in the V formation but because of the space in double rows. The soloist was Victor Wiggin, worthy successor of his big brother. Only he did not start from far behind, but in front. Halfway through the song, the big boys returned and added to the performance. Very nice.

Sam (top) and Victor Wiggin)

"Sanctus" in a whole new arrangement, however with some of the old element preserved. Very interesting to hear.

Then the languages of various boys were introduced by Peter Kielty, we heard Polish, French, Spanish, Gaelic, Japanese and Italian.
Salva me was next. Unfortunately because of the long distance and pillars in the way I was unable to see the boys the did the descants from the now familiar location high up on the choir of the cathedral.

"Eternal light" is a nice song, long ago performed by Stefan Leadbeater, and the performance of Benedict Bywater reminded me very much of that. Ben was supported by Oliver Watt-Rodriguez and Victor Wiggin behind him. Well done.

John Gardner then announced the end of the concert and thanked us for being present.

Performance of "Nearer My God to Thee."

"Nearer my God to Thee" was another extra not on the programme. Beautifully done a capella by Merlin Brouwer, Victor Wiggin, Leo Barron, Rocco Tesei, Ben Bywater and Mathias Montoro, another of my favorites.
"Libera," traditionally the last song, sometimes as an encore, sometimes, like this time on the programme. Rocco Tesei did the solo.

(L to R:) Taichi Shinokubo, Rocco Tesei, ?, Alex Montoro, Camden Stuart, Victor Wiggin. (Photo by Sébastien)

After a well-deserved standing ovation the encore was "Smile," beautifully done by Victor Wiggin, with Alexander Montoro behind him.—Johan

Added Comments by John45 :

[I would title this concert] “The Return of the Magnificent Seven” (Matts x 2—Jansen and Madine—Alessandro Mackinnon-Botti, Sam Wiggin, Gabriel Collins, Isaac London and Ciaran Bradbury-Hickey). Their contribution enriched so many songs especially “How Great Thou Art” and of course the showpiece “Lamentione” along with the regular back row and descantists (is that a word) Leo Barron and Ben Bywater.

Highlights and surprises:

Caccini "Ave Maria:" not listed in the programme. This is such a difficult piece and to perform it live takes exceptional skill and courage. Leo Barron lacks neither. An outstanding performance.

"How Great Thou Art:" New soloist for this favourite was Oliver Watt-Rodriguez. His expressive voice is the perfect match for this hymn.

"I Am the Day:" Relative newcomer Dominik Clarke was already spotted as a potential new soloist on the US tour. He has more than fulfilled expectations with this lovely solo ably accompanied by Oliver Mycka and Peter Kielty.

Dominik Clarke

"Wayfaring Stranger:" Seeing Victor Wiggin almost literally follow in his brother’s footsteps was a tear-jerk moment for me. Though their voices are distinct, Victor’s is a perfect match for this emotional song as was Sam’s.

"Nearer My God To Thee:" Just wonderful. Lost Alex Gula and Alex Montoro but gained Matthias Montoro and Victor Wiggin. So nice to see Matthias emerge from the shadows and shine.

"Eternal Light:" Not new or a surprise - but Ben Bywater just nailed it.

Best Speech: Cassius Collard on the Travels of Moose.

A great concert. Japan is in for a treat.—John45

(Photo by Sébastien)

Also on the 18th, fan Rudy Vande Loo posted a slideshow video of "For the Future," from the Japanese edition of Beyond, sung primarily in Japanese, with the addition of several other languages: Solos: Oliver Watt-Rodriguez (Japanese and Spanish), Daniel White, Koji Shinokubo, Mathias Montoro (Italian), Oliver Mycka (Polish), Victor Wiggin (French)

https://www.facebook.com/rudy.vandeloo/videos/1885101914877026/?multi_permalinks=10156694887469185&notif_id=1539891927347065&notif_t=group_highlights (For the Future/video with slideshow/4:35)

On October 19th, a tweet from Libera:

Our song ‘Angel’ is the Universal Studios Japan theme song this Christmas and here it is on the TV advert! The pictures in the advert show the popular group ‘Kanjani Eight’

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=30&v=PgkcpuP6AC4 (30-second ad for Universal Studios Japan Christmas extravaganza, featuring the Libera song "Angel").

WESTMINSTER CONCERT WRAP-UP
By The Furby

Nombre de boys :__46	Marc Alvares Ethan Barron Leo Barron Nathaniel Bates-Fisher Luke Batteson-Dalpiaz Emanuele Borrelli Ciaran Bradbury-Hickey Merlin Brouwer Luca Brugnoli Ben Bywater Dominik Clarke Cassius Collard Gabriel Collins Samuel-Francis Collins Joseph Cranitch Laurence Davey Tadhg Fitzgerald Johnny Gardner Alex Gula Adam Izghouti Felipe Jackson Matthew Jansen Peter Kielty Isaac London Alessandro McKinnon-Botti Matthew Madine Alexandre Menuet Alex Montoro Mathias Montoro Frederick Mushrafi Oliver Mycka Neo Parson Koji Shinokubo Taichi Shinokubo Jack Spicha Camden Stewart Laurence Taylor Nicholas Taylor Rocco Tesei Romeo Tesei Calam Virk Tamana Oliver Watt-Rodriguez Benjamin Wevill Daniel White Sam Wiggin Victor Wiggin
Newbies : Luke Batteson-Dalpiaz Luca Brugnoli Laurence Davey Felipe Jackson Frederick Mushrafi Nouveau(x) soliste(s) : Dominik Clarke (I Am the Day) Tadhg Fitzgerald (Libera) Mathias Montoro (Nearer My God)
Staff : Musical Director Robert Prizeman Assistant Musical Directors Sam Coates & Steven Geraghty Strings Project Instrumental Flute Eimear McGeown Oboe Jesse Bescoby Clarinet Paul Sanders Horn Jack Pilcher May Percussion John Ormston Piano / Keyboard Nathaniel Brawn Sound Mixing & Production Sam Coates Sound Engineering Robin Hawkins Lighting Luke Avery Stage Management Matthew Jansen Stage Direction Steven Geraghty Libera co-ordination & chaperone Barbara Geraghty, Anna Jansen & Angelika Gula Libera management Eleanor Lewis Production Co-ordinator Andrew Winter Programme design & art direction Kathy Kielty
Setlist & Solis	1- Mysterium (déchant par Leo Barron) > 2- Joyful Joyful 3- The Prayer (Daniel White) 4- Ave Maria (Prizeman) (version 2) (Merlin Brouwer) 5- Stay With Me (Oliver Mycka & Samuel-Francis Collins) 6- Ave Maria (Caccini) (Leo Barron) 7- In Paradisum (Robbins) (Rocco Tesei & Oliver Watt-Rodriguez) 8- How Great Thou Art (Oliver Watt-Rodriguez) 9- Voca Me (version 2) ( déchant par Léo Barron) 10- Orinoco Flow	11- Lamentione (Alessandro McKinnon-Botti, déchant par Leo Barron & Ben Bywater) 12- I Am The Day (Dominik Clarke, Peter Kielty & Oliver Mycka) 13- From a Distance (Merlin Brouwer) 14- Wayfaring Stranger (Victor Wiggin) 15- Sanctus (version 2) 16- Salva Me (déchant par Oliver Watt-Rodriguez) 17- Eternal Light (Ben Bywater Oliver Watt-Rodriguez) 18- Nearer my God (Merlin Brouwer, Ben Bywater, Mathias Montoro, Victor Wiggin, Rocco Tesei & Leo Barron) 19- Libera (Tadhg Fitzgerald & Rocco Tesei) 20- Smile (Victor Wiggin & Alex Montoro)

For reasons of long-post instability, the Timeline is moving on. The Japan tour and events that follow, up to December 7th, can now be found in Part 11A

End of Part 11; For Part 11A, Please Go To

https://li-berahistoricaltime-line11a.blogspot.com/

LIBERA HISTORICAL TIMELINE: PART 11

Sunday, December 31, 2017

(January 1st, 2018 - October 20th, 2018)

********************************************************

For Part One (introduction to Libera and to the Timeline, extensive overview & 1981-2007), please go to: http://liberatimeline.blogspot.com/

For Part Two (2008-2009) http://liberatimeline2.blogspot.com/

For Part Three (2010) http://liberatimeline3.blogspot.com/

For Part Four (2011)http://liberatimeline4.blogspot.com/

For Part Five (2012)http://liberatimeline5.blogspot.com/

For Part Six (January-May 2013):http://libera-timeline-6.blogspot.com/

For Part 6A (May-December 2013)http://libera-historicaltimeline6a.blogspot.com/

For Part Seven (January-July 2014)http://libera-historicaltimelinepart7.blogspot.com

For Part 7A (August-November 2014)http://libera-historical-timelinepart7a.blogspot.com

For Part 7B (December 2014)http://libera-historical-timeline-part7b.blogspot.com

For Part 8 (January-March 2015)https://lib-erahistorical-timeline-part-eight.blogspot.com

For Part 8A (January-March, 2015)http://liberahistorical-timeline-part-8-a.blogspot.com

For Part 8B (August-December,2015)http://liberahistoricaltimelinepart8b.blogspot.com/

For Part 9 (January-July, 2016)http://liberahistoricaltimeline-part-9.blogspot.com/

For Part 9A (July through December, 2015)http://lib-erahistorical-timelinepart9a.blogspot.com/

For Part 10 (January 1st, 2017 August 11th, 2017) https://li-berahistoricalt-imelinepart1a.blogspot.com/

For Part 10A (August 12^th to December 31^st, 2017) https://lib-era-historic-altimelinepart10a.blogspot.com/

For Part 11A https://li-berahistoricaltime-line11a.blogspot.com/

*****************************************************

"Mini-Ben"Philipp, (see essay on names above) was only 11 years old, and singing in his first major concert when he tackled the difficult solo part based by director/composer Robert Prizeman on the "Aquarium" section of Camille St.-Saens' Carnival of the Animals.

His listing on an a creative professionals' website yields the following information: https://actors.mandy.com/uk/actor/profile/benedict-philipp

Education

About me

Additional Information

USA TOUR IN THE WORKS

Libera in Moscow

On August 24th, Fredric Einstein, administrator of one of the most active unofficial Libera Facebook groups, posted the following article of interest:

On August 28th Libera posted a YouTube video of six soloists performing "Nearer My God to Thee" a cappella in the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles, CA.

(January 1st, 2018 - October 20th, 2018)

Report Abuse

Sunday, December 31, 2017

(January 1st, 2018 - October 20th, 2018)

********************************************************

For Part One (introduction to Libera and to the Timeline, extensive overview & 1981-2007), please go to: http://liberatimeline.blogspot.com/

For Part Two (2008-2009) http://liberatimeline2.blogspot.com/

For Part Three (2010) http://liberatimeline3.blogspot.com/

For Part Four (2011)http://liberatimeline4.blogspot.com/

For Part Five (2012)http://liberatimeline5.blogspot.com/

For Part Six (January-May 2013):http://libera-timeline-6.blogspot.com/

For Part 6A (May-December 2013)http://libera-historicaltimeline6a.blogspot.com/

For Part Seven (January-July 2014)http://libera-historicaltimelinepart7.blogspot.com

For Part 7A (August-November 2014)http://libera-historical-timelinepart7a.blogspot.com

For Part 7B (December 2014)http://libera-historical-timeline-part7b.blogspot.com

For Part 8 (January-March 2015)https://lib-erahistorical-timeline-part-eight.blogspot.com

For Part 8A (January-March, 2015)http://liberahistorical-timeline-part-8-a.blogspot.com

For Part 8B (August-December,2015)http://liberahistoricaltimelinepart8b.blogspot.com/

For Part 9 (January-July, 2016)http://liberahistoricaltimeline-part-9.blogspot.com/

For Part 9A (July through December, 2015)http://lib-erahistorical-timelinepart9a.blogspot.com/

For Part 10 (January 1st, 2017 August 11th, 2017) https://li-berahistoricalt-imelinepart1a.blogspot.com/

For Part 10A (August 12th to December 31st, 2017) https://lib-era-historic-altimelinepart10a.blogspot.com/

For Part 11A https://li-berahistoricaltime-line11a.blogspot.com/

*****************************************************

"Mini-Ben"Philipp, (see essay on names above) was only 11 years old, and singing in his first major concert when he tackled the difficult solo part based by director/composer Robert Prizeman on the "Aquarium" section of Camille St.-Saens' Carnival of the Animals.

His listing on an a creative professionals' website yields the following information: https://actors.mandy.com/uk/actor/profile/benedict-philipp

Education

About me

Additional Information

USA TOUR IN THE WORKS

Libera in Moscow

On August 24th, Fredric Einstein, administrator of one of the most active unofficial Libera Facebook groups, posted the following article of interest:

(January 1st, 2018 - October 20th, 2018)

For Part 10A (August 12^th to December 31^st, 2017) https://lib-era-historic-altimelinepart10a.blogspot.com/