October 21st to December 31st 2018

Standing ovation in Japan, 2018

 Last Revised/Updated December 31st, 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.

Information on how to identify individual group members, on the exhaustive Libera Passion database, and on translation of non-English-language articles and commentary can be found at the beginning of Part 11 (link below)

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:
 

aahill@sonic.net

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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 11 (January 1st to October 20th, 2018)  https://lib-er-ahistorical-timelinepart11.blogspot.com/

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
JAPAN TOUR
("In Paradisum" and "Lacrymosa" Videos)
(Various Activities in November-Early December)
December 15th CHRISTMAS CONCERT, ST. BARTHOLOMEW'S CHURCH, BRIGHTON UK 
(Brighton Concert Reviews)
(Libera Christmas Greeting Video) 
CONCERT IN MOSCOW 

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JAPAN TOUR 

 

21st October, 2018

Shinjuku Culture Center,Tokyo

Singers (26)

 

 (Photo by Patrick)

Song List and Soloists (Courtesy of Patrick)

 

 

 

Seated from L: Emmanuele Borelli, Leo Barron and Camden Stewart. Manager and chaperone Eleanor Lewis is behind them.

The boys posed with Fans in groups of six. Here with Yuki are (clockwise from Left) Rocco Tesei, Ben Bywater, Dominik Clarke, Oliver Mycka (with Moose), Tadgh Fitzgerald and Alexandre Menuet.

Large photo: Joe Cranitch and Nathaniel Bates-Fisher. Smaller photos from top: Romeo Tesei, Mathias Montoro and Laurence Tayloe, Leo Barron and Camden Stewart. (Photo by Patrick)

 

On October 22nd, the following review, accompanied by 11 
excellent photographs, appeared on the Japanese Billboard site. (Translation by Google Translate)

NEWS

2018/10/22 Holy singing voice of boys invites the audience to a pure world, British boys' choir "LIBERA" Japan tour opens.

British boys choir LIBERA started a tour of Japan - Angel Voices Tour 2018 "Beyond" - at Shinjuku Cultural Center in Tokyo on October 21.The choir is a boys choir composed of boys aged 7 to 16 and before the voice changes. With 20 years since its inception, making "Ribera · Sound" making use of the founder and producer Robert Prizeman's voice of boys continues to develop.

The tour will be held with the latest album "Beyond" released on October 17, starting with Tokyo performance on 21st and 22nd, 24th Nagoya · Zepp Nagoya on 26th, Osaka · Grand Cube Osaka on 26th We conducted 4 performances in total. In addition to recording the songs that have become the standard of LIBERA so far in a new arrangement so far, the same album that celebrated the 20th year, the first full-length Japanese new song produced by Seiji Kameda "Tomorrow ~ For the Future "also included. The title "Beyond" contains the feeling that "LIBERA's standard number to be continued to singing continues to evolve with the times, gifts from LIBERA that have arrived over time and across the border" as well.
 

The concert starts with "Joyful Joyful". In the hymn of the melody of Beethoven 's song of jubilation sung by members who were dressed in pure white robes, the venue was instantly wrapped in a pure and holy atmosphere. After a big applause from the audience, a Japanese member Koji Shinkubo (9 years old) said, "We are LIBERA, I am a Japanese, I live in the same London as everyone here,  This time is my first time to come to Japan as a member of Libera, I would like to take care of you. " In addition, "Daniel (White) is also nine years old like me and it is his first time to come to Japan." He introduces the song as one song from a new album "and says it is a"Beyond "recorded songand one of the repertory LIBERA has been singing for many years" Ave Maria (Prizeman) "etc. A big applause was given from the audience seated with a transparent singing voice on a gentle melody. In addition, regular songs such as the group's representative songs "Stay With Me" and "Ave Maria (Caccini)" of Prizeman Lyrics and Composition are also available.

In addition, Mr. Seiji Kameda first sang "For Tomorrow—For the Future" that he wrote for the boys choir. Mr. Kameda's "(same song) LIBERA's world view itself, a beautiful song that delivers love, courage and kindness to us, bless our life like an hymn and praise our future As the comment of "I will give you," some of the audience who received blessings from their singing voice unexpectedly shed tears.Meanwhile, "One break after the next two songs, a break where laughter will spill from the venue in a crowded MC that will take care not to spill drinks on this pure white robe."

Starting from the break, the second part starts from "I Am the Day. " "We were able to perform around the world this year, China, America, and here in Japan. Also we will go to Moscow in December, how far away is the Moose ( the mascot character) I will fly away. "Speaking of" far, " the next is" From a Distance ."In addition to showing off a tie-up song "Tenshi ga Kishita mirai (Angel Wings)" with USJ appointed as USJ (Universal Wonder · Christmas 2018) CM (On Air from October 22), they also performed "Libera" which can be said to be their theme song.In the encore, Ariosa Children's Choir appears. After announcing that LIBERA's songs are being used in the drama song of the drama "Shimomachi Rocket" which is currently on air from members of the same choir, "Let's sing the rust part together! "Together with the members of the Ariosa Children's Choir, together with the audience, concluded the concert with a major chorus of  "For the Future. "After the show, the members performed an autograph session. At the autograph session, there were  long lines, filled with about 700 fans ranging from 2F to 1F, the implementation site. Text: Ken Harada Photo: Daisuke Akita

L to R: Ben Bywater, Oliver Mycka, Ben Wevill, Tadgh Fitzgerald, Neo Parson, Romeo Tesei, Johnny Gardener,

◎ Tour information【Angel Voices Tour 2018 "beyond"】October 22, 2018 (Monday) Tokyo · Shinjuku Cultural CenterWednesday, October 24, 2018 Nagoya · Zepp NagoyaOctober 26, 2018 (Fri) Osaka · Grand Cube Osaka


http://www.billboard-japan.com/d_news/detail/68978/2

PROGRAM NOTE: Sharp-eyed fan Lauren noted that the keyboard accompanist for this tour is Simon Beston, originally one of the Angel Voices,who is seen here as a teenager in a video made c. 2000.

  

• 22nd October, 2018 
•  
  Shinjuku Culture Center, Tokyo
  
  

  

  A photo-session group: Top: Samuel-Francis Collins, Nathaniel Bates-Fisher, Mathias Montoro. Front row: Johnny Gardener, Ben Wevill? Alexandre Menuet.

  
  

   

  (Changes in green from first concert, as noted by Patrick.)  

  
  

   

  
  

  COMMENTS BY MAARTENDAS

  
  

  In short: 

  
  Samuel-Francis Collins had his solo debut last night on "Amazing Grace" - he has a smooth and shining voice; The live premiere of "For the Future" went down well, and was performed both in the first half and as a second encore together with a Japanese children's choir; Oliver Watt-Rodriguez is coming into the limelight as a soloist, including perfect "Salvas" in "Salva Me;""Angel" was sung by Ben Bywater and Daniel White; Leo Barron's "Ave Maria" is progressing every concert so Nagoya and Osaka are in for a treat; other notable singers were Mathias Montoro and Rocco Tesei. Also Oliver Mycka is still getting better, adding more shine to each performance. 

  
  

  Many songs touched me deeply.
  Personal highlights:
  "Nearer my God to Thee"
  "Ave Maria"(Caccini)
  "Wayfaring Stranger"
  
  P.S.: the Japanese fanclub had its first tour to be active and present. The fanclub members were given the opportunity for a photo with some of the boys. This was done very fast and probably dozens of photos were taken. They changed each night which boys were at which tables to sign and which boys were doing the photos. I was impressed by how lively and friendly they all were despite the fact that they did their first concert within 24 hours of arriving in Japan. Once again, the chaperones, staff, parents and all involved are to be commended for all they do in support of this unique group. 

  
  

  24th October, 2018

  
  

  Zepp Nagoya (Nagoya)

  
  

   

    

  Zepp Nagoya Theater

  
  

  Once again, Patrick apprises us of changes to the program (highlighted in green). The Caccini "Ave Maria," with solo by Leo Barron, was replaced by "How Great Thou Art," with solo by Oliver Watt-Rodriguez.  In the second half, Daniel White sang the solo part of "Angel" alone. The first half was previously sung by Ben Bywater. "Eternal Light" was sung by five boys, instead of as a solo/duet by Ben Bywater and Oliver Watt-Rodriguez. It seems that an effort had to be made to spare the voices of more frequent soloists.

  
  

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  Joseph Cranitch and Daniel White

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  

  
  
  

  

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  Left to Right: (Top Row) Merlin Brouwer, Camden Stewart, Tadgh Fitzgerald, Nathanel Bates -Fisher, Alexandre Menuet, Laurence Taylor, Koji Shinokubo, Mathias Montoro, Johhny Gardener. (Front:) Oliver Mycka,  Victor Wiggin, Neo Parson, Daniel White.

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  http://www.forum.libera-dreams.com/viewtopic.php?f=36&p=53476&sid=28abd49cdc94e186c62eeaf63925293e#p53476  (Page 7 of Japan ‘Beyond’ Tour/Patrick’s review of the activities following the Nagoya concert/October 2008)

  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  REVIEW BY MAARTENDAS 

  On October 26th the Libera Dreams Forum, fan Maartendas provided a very perceptive and charmingly personal review of the first two concerts of the tour.

   
  

  "Carry me on the waves to the lands I've never been..."
  These words from Orinoco Flow describe exactly what Libera has done to me this year.
  When I came to Los Angeles to see them, it was the furthest I had ever been away from home. I had visited the US before, but never the West Coast. While gazing out over the Pacific, I felt as though I could take off right then and there and see what lay 'beyond' the horizon.... And I ended up doing just that, by going to Japan!
  The two concerts in Tokyo were both very special to me.

  
  On Sunday I celebrated a small anniversary as it was my 10th Libera concert - in the 5th country I visited to see them (the other four being Ireland, England, Germany and the US).

  
  On Monday the boys sounded better than on Sunday, probably helped by a good night's sleep and having had the kick-off of the tour. All in all there were a number of times where the performance brought tears to my eyes. It was also nice to see them in a theatrical setting once more and I loved the use of the stage lights, sometimes pointed to the audience, causing a glow through the room, or giving dramatic or moody effects (such as in "Salva Me," where Oliver Watt-Rodriguez was in a single violet beam and the group was shaded in deep blue).

  
  
  

  
  

   The boys pose with the composer of "For the Future," Seiji Kamada.

   
  Below are my personal impressions of each song:
  
  Joyful Joyful - the boys filed in procession from both sides as the strings started plucking and the concert began. A gentle, upbeat start, where I could distinguish several individual voices on Sunday.
  
  The Prayer - only the second song and already tears in my eyes. Daniel White sings his solo very calmly and confidently, taking time for the long ending notes. He seems to really 'own' this song by now. On Monday, it truly seemed like a prayer to me, not only from Daniel but everyone. It was wonderfully moving to see and hear them sing these words.
  
  Ave Maria (Prizeman) - there were grey lights shaped like fans with smoke blown upward, very atmospheric. Merlin Brouwer sang his solo with wonderful stage presence, however, he was searching to reach the notes at some points. Even so, I admire how he stood his ground. The overall choral sound was once again full and rich. Everytime they sing this, this song too feels like an actual prayer to me. As said before, on Monday Merlin's solo was adapted to become a "group solo" (if you can call it that). This, though new, sounded very natural.
  
  Stay With Me - Oliver Mycka keeps getting better at this one. Just like The Prayer is Daniel White's song, this is definitely his. His voice keeps reminding me of shining gold or another precious metal. I was moved by how he sings these words time and again and they talk about someone who is with him through all the changes of life. The meaning of the song grows, the longer he sings it.
  
  Ave Maria (Caccini) - Leo Barron's high notes brought tears to my eyes... They moved me greatly, especially on Monday, He had some difficulty finding the notes for the words, but once he goes for the stellar part, he soars effortlessly. 
  
  I wonder how Robert helps the boys centre themselves when they sing a solo. It seemed to me like Leo was trying very hard to find his balance and sing from there. He is a hard worker in the group and can perform different roles convincingly, that's for sure.
  
  Amazing Grace - Peter Kielty sang the solo on Sunday and it was pleasing to hear his friendly voice once more (I sometimes see vague colours with certain sounds, Peter's voice to me has a light grey/blue tone). On Monday he was replaced by Samuel-Francis Collins, who has a smooth and shining voice, also very pleasant, but different and higher.
  
  In Paradisum - Rocco Tesei's voice is so powerful and rich. The first crescendo, with "Jerusalem", once again brought tears to my eyes. I was also reflecting on how this song has been part of 2018, starting with the performance in Ely and still going strong.
  
  For the Future - the live premiere on Sunday went down very well. I had not seen the whole video yet so I was still in for a surprise when I saw the other soloists step forward. I really love this song since I first heard it. I can bask in its changing colours and lightness and it's been stuck in my head a lot. Also: Oliver Watt-Rodriguez's Japanese sounds fluent.

  
  
   Voca Me - I could see Rocco Tesei working hard towards the final crescendo, adding visual drama to the building tension. On Monday I was once again deeply moved by Leo Barron's high notes, so powerful, I could literally feel them.
  Orinoco Flow - happy and colourful, in contrast to a mostly solemn first half. On Monday especially I enjoyed very much hearing all the different voices and instruments, like a bright and cheerful mosaic of sound.
  
  During the interval I was able to chat with several Forum members, as was also the case before and after each concert. It feels less strange to be at the other side of the world when you can share the same experiences of a Libera tour. Special thanks to all the Japanese fans who are so helpful and thoughtful for us foreigners!
  Next up, part 2:
  
  I Am The Day - touching and enchanting. I was struck by the part where the soloists only whisper and the boys bow their heads. Such a mysterious part! Dominik Clarke is a perfect soloist for this song - his voice sounds so natural for it that I immediately forgot that he is a new soloist (and as a result I also forgot to listen for specific characteristics of his voice ). I sat next to his parents on Monday and I told them how he always seems so engaged in the singing. They confirmed this 100%.

  
  From a Distance - Merlin Brouwer again as soloist, in tiptop shape. The full choral parts are always engaging to listen to and to watch. On Monday I let my gaze wander from left to right and notice each individual boy, as they were all facing the audience. The last two were Leo Barron and Daniel White, which was a touching sight, in light of the recent interview they did at Garden Grove (where Daniel talks about Leo as his treble "boss" who is teaching him.)
  Wayfaring stranger - Victor Wiggin's voice fits this song very well. I was moved by seeing the light right on top of him, creating a figure of both shade and light, a powerful image. On Monday he really delivered, as did the whole group in that stirring finale. Especially Dominik Clarke gave it his all in that one.
  Angel - sung by both Ben Bywater and Daniel White, which was a nice surprise. Ben's voice is quite rich (though this may not be the perfect song for it). I always compare it in my mind to a solid bowl, carrying something precious. Daniel clearly enjoyed his part of the song. On Sunday I noticed a beautiful clarinet sound in this one. Hearing this favourite of mine made me very, very happy.

   
  Sanctus - the instruments were much softer in this song, as the boys themselves form an orchestra of their own with their voices. A warm, delicious sound to bask in, truly fitting the lyrics. On Monday Rocco Teseistood out with his high part, just lovely to hear and see.
  Salva Me - on Monday, Oliver Watt-Rodriguez' "Salvas" sounded exactly like the original recording. I was stunned and just loved it. Very, very well done. I was able to give him a compliment for that in the signing on Monday and he seemed happy to hear that.

   
  Eternal light - a joy to hear Ben Bywater's voice again. The group as a whole conveyed the lyrics with conviction, very calming and uplifting.
  Nearer my God to Thee - first of all, special mention goes to Mathias who, with his lower voice, adds a beautiful tone to the harmony. He also made an impression with his small but significant part in For the Future.

  
  Then the song itself. On Sunday, I thought the performance sounded more serious and more resigned than I had heard before, perhaps because of the rearranging of soloists.
  But on Monday, this song went beyond (!) any previous performance. To me, it was more than "just" music. It touched on something very profound and true. Like something outside of the concert, something deeper about life was revealed. Hard to put it any other way. Also, the voices and their delivery were (to my ears anyway) just perfect from start to finish. It left me deeply moved.
  Finale time with Libera, delivered with confidence and power on both nights, and with special mention of Tadhg Fitzgerald on Monday. Great applause followed, especially on Monday the applause was quite strong, also for each song.
  First encore was Smile, where Alex Montoro has a wonderful featured role [on the low harmony]..
  Then another long applause before the second encore was announced: another rendition of For the Future, accompanied by a Japanese children's choir, mostly girls, who performed in a disciplined and sweet manner. On Monday two of them announced greetings to the composer who was in the audience. It was nice to hear this song twice at each concert, as it's a rare occasion to hear it live. I love that they had this joint performance, as a cultural exhange between children through music. Oliver Watt-Rodriguez'  final lyric ended the night.
  The M&G was a different experience than in the US, more strictly organised and not sure which boys I would be able to talk to. I was grateful for the opportunity to share with Alex Gula and Nathaniel  Bates-Fisher on Sunday why the following concert on Monday would have a special significance for me (it was the anniversary of my mother's passing) and then on Monday itself I was offered - completely unexpectedly - very kind words by Daniel White in the signing line. A precious moment. There were other, more funny moments as well, very relaxed, joking and chatting. The photo opportunity went by superfast but leaves a lasting souvenir.
  In hindsight, I would have liked to stay on for the rest of the tour and also see more of Japan. So here's  hoping they return to Japan for another tour one day. Here's hoping... "for the future"—Maartendas

  A Japanese fan poses with (Top) Dominick Clarke, Neo Parson, Victor Wiggin (Front) Merlin Brouwer, Laurence Taylor and Koji Shinokubo.

  
  

  

   

   
  
  
  
  
  A SUMMARY OF THE JAPAN TOUR FROM JUSTINWYC
  (OCTOBER 28th)
  

  Introduction
  
  It’s a wrap! The four-day Japan tour is most definitely a resounding success. It was three years ago when I attended my first Libera concert, and almost 13 years ago when I first listened to their incredible music. I must admit that when I attended the 2nd Tokyo concert (unfortunately due to other commitments I was not able to attend the 1st Tokyo concert last Sunday), I went in with some trepidation and cautious optimism. Trepidation because it’s been a long time coming, and I worried that my expectations (which were probably unfairly based on hazy memories of the 2015 UK Xmas concert, recordings and music videos) might not be met; cautious optimism because the Libera I knew always delivers solid performances, even if there might be minor hiccups here and there. I can now say that the concerts I attended were all very well done. Despite some vocal difficulties (solos were taken out and replaced by a group; songs were replaced) and minor illnesses faced by some of the boys, they delivered solid performances that impressed everyone who attended. 
  
  

  Flautist Elmear McGeown with Libera

  
   Were there any highlights?
  
  For me personally, I particularly liked “In Paradisum” and “Wayfaring Stranger”.
  
  Rocco Tesei and Oliver Watt-Rodriguez were remarkably consistent for the three concerts I attended, delivering strong vocals and hitting most high notes with good accuracy. I also noticed that Merlin Brouwer has provided supporting vocals for the highest notes of the song (i.e “Jerusalem”, “Aeternam” and “Requiem”). Perhaps this was done to ensure the soloists don’t stress their vocal cords too much, and Merlin did well in that regard by blending his voice with Rocco's. Rocco has a strong and colourful voice, capable of ringing high notes and silky low notes. Oliver’s slightly breathy harmonies works so well by adding another layer to the already impressive sound. This powerful, dynamic and soaring sound gives me goosebumps every time.

   
  
  Victor Wiggin’s solo of “Wayfaring Stranger” is an emotional journey. It reminds me of Sam Wiggin’s rendition because of some similarities between their voices. I have also always liked this song because of its contemplative, wistful message. Victor’s slightly raspy but sweet voice works well in conveying this message.
  
  I also enjoyed “I am the Day,” with Dominik  Clarke providing a lovely solo; Daniel White’s “The Prayer,” and last but certainly not least, “Nearer my God to Thee.” The acapella performance of “Nearer my God to Thee” nearly drove me to tears by its sheer beauty.

  

  
  Lastly, I think Alex Gula, Alex Montoro and Camden Stewart must be commended for being the anchor of each performance. Their powerful low voices are crucial for creating a balanced sound.
  
  Are there any things that I wish were done differently?
  
  Sure, perhaps the sound mixing could be improved, as sometimes the soloist/high descants could not be heard over the chorus and instrumentation. There were also times when the lights would blind the audience, though that might be by design? I would also like to see the return of some body movements if possible, for example, like the raising and lowering of arms during “Libera.”

  Conclusion
  
  I have greatly enjoyed all three of the concerts, although the one regret is that I could not hear Leo Barron sing Ave Maria (Caccini) one more time during this tour. That incredibly beautiful but difficult piece with its stratospheric high notes is truly a wonder to behold.— justinwyc

   

  
  
  
  
  

  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’. #KanjaniEight #USJ 

   

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=30&v=PgkcpuP6AC4

  On October 29th, aoba posted on the Libera Dreams Forum: 

  
  

  It was announced that Libera's music will be used for background one in the Japanese TV Series ‘Shitamachi Rocket (下町ロケット)’. This program is currently on the air in Japan as fall TV shows 2018.
  https://libera-records.com/news/2018/10/21/800/
  https://www.tbs.co.jp/shitamachi_rocket ... ml#d181025

  The boys posed with the stars of "Rocket. "‘Far Away’ was used in ep.1 which was broadcasted already. From now on, other songs including a new recording one(s) will be used. Actually, they recorded something for this program in Tokyo during the Japan tour in 2018.
  https://www.instagram.com/p/BpTc8dxg19O/
  
  In ep.3, I heard the new recording song: ‘Headlight, Taillight (ヘッドライト・テールライト)’. This song originally comes from Miyuki Nakajima (中島みゆき) and Libera sang its vocalise version. It is a well-known song and she is one of the most famous singer-songwriter in Japan.
  https://www.tbs.co.jp/shitamachi_rocket ... ml#d181028

  
  The latest episode of this series is officially available on the following link only for 7 days.
  (Perhaps due to IP restrictions, it may not be available from outside Japan. If it applies, please point it out.)
  [TVer]: https://tver.jp/corner/f0027147
  
  The ep.3 is available on TVer until 4 November 23:59 JST. That song's start point is 28m43s—aoba

  
  
  

  "LACRYMOSA" VIDEO

  
  

  On October 30th, Libera posted their official YouTube video of "Lacrymosa."

  
  

  Alex Gula and Leo Barron appear in the enigmatic "Lacrymosa" video

  
  

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REoeg1_eQ04 (Lacrymosa 2018/solos by Alex Gula and Leo Barron/3:21)

  
  

   VIDEO OF A TYPICAL LIBERA AUTOGRAPH SESSION—GARDEN GROVE, CALIFORNIA

  

  Alex Gula, Camden Stewart and Rocco Tesei wait to sign autographs.

   

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eft-St4oQwk (Autograph session in Garden Grove, California, August 2018/4:43

  
  

  A TWEET FROM LIBERA ON NOVEMBER 1ST

  

  
   On November 1st, Libera posted a large number of wonderful photos from the USA Summer Tour, including many fine concert photos and  portraits.
  
  

  

  Reflected in a piano.

  
  

   

  C;ockwise from left: Johnny Gardener, Daniel White, Leo Barron, Oliver Mycka,

  
  

   

   Koji Shinokubo hidin' out.

  libera.org.uk/gallery/usa-tour-2018/ …
  
  On November 4th, Merlin Brouwer's proud mom Lisa, posted the following on Twitter:
    
  

  
   
  

  On November 9th, Libera posted the following tweet:

  
  
  
  

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9ykdNi7DGM (We Are the Lost/ solo by Sam Wiggin/2014/2:16)

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7F601WKO34 (Libera WWI BBC Songs of Praise Special/2014/18:19)

  
  

  

  A Japanese Libera fan  posted this full-length version of "For the Future," accompanied by video clips and slideshow images from the group's appearances in Japan, and from the DVD of the song from the Japanese version of Beyond. At this point the DVD version in its entirety was not yet available on YouTube.
  

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2pqqfFEZw8 (For the Future/full song with video clips and slideshow/4:34)

  On October 13th, Libera of the US posted a four-minute video of the boys enjoying various sports during the recent US tour. It came with a call for donations to stage another tour in 2019.

  

  
  

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Uj1ra2WVyo (Libera of the US video of sports activities between concerts during the 2018 summer US tour/4:04)

  On November 18th, St. Philip's Church posted an announcement of its Christmas Fair, and of an evening of music and readings by the St. Philip's Choir, which includes current members of Libera as well as many alumni of the group. In this capacity, the boys have also often appeared at the Fair. 
  
  The hard-working singers learned this music, along with the traditional holiday rendering of "Nine Lessons and Carols," as well as music for regularly Sunday services and the repetoire for their upcoming December 15th concert in Brighton and their December 28th appearance in Moscow.
  
  

  

  
  Back on November 16th, Libera celebrated a small milestone:
  
  

  

  
  
  

  
  

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AowNmfQGHwo (Daniel White and Tadgh Fitzgerald thank YouTube viewers for the 100,000 "Silver Subscribers"Award/:33)

  
  

  
  

  On November 20th, the ever-resourceful Patrick Fandelok posed the following discoveries on the Libera Dreams Forum. Although Google Translate stumbles a bit (as between "Rivera" and "Ribera," "Prizeman" and "Priestman"), These online essays provide an interesting perspective.

  
  

  

  
  Here is a two-part interview from the Japanese site USEN, through Google Translate. 

  
  

  Part 1 : a general presentation of Libera and the 'Beyond' album
  
  Part 2 : an interesting long dialogue between Kameda Seiji (the composer of the 'For the Future' song) and Kodama Yoko, who is the producer behind Libera Records Japan.
  

  

  
  On November 22nd, Libera fan aoba posted this opening sequence for the Japanese TV show Shitamachi Rocket, featuring Libera vocalizing a song called "Headlight, Taillight."
  
  
  

  We can hear ‘Headlight, Taillight (vocalise version)’ in this video.
  
  https://twitter.com/liberarecords/statu ... 75264?s=21

  
  

  https://youtu.be/A0DcCVr0oa4

  
  

  
  It's the longer version, not the full one.—aoba
  
  On November 23rd, Libera Passion tweeted the following (link below photo):
  
  

  
  

  http://libera-passion.exprimetoi.net/t1280-les-morceaux-interpretes-par-le-st-philip-s-boy-choir-angel-voices-libera#26871

  
  

  
  

  This is another amazing feat of research and categorization by Libera Passion. Who knew that "Sanctus," in its three (to date) versions had been sung 145 times in concert? That "Salva Me" appeared 140 times, and "Libera" 131 times? That the first song recorded by Angel Voices was a single of "Sing For Ever" (solo by Jaymi Bandtock) backed with "Adoramus?" Truly a treasure-house of Libera facts. 
  
  On November 27th, Libera tweeted the official poster for the December 15th concert in Brighton.
  

   
  

  
  
  

  A recent Libera Instagram post; recording in a studio in Tokyo. Top: Oliver Mycka, Ben Bywater, Mathias Montoro, Leo Barron. Middle: Leo Barron, Victor Wiggin, Samuel-Francis Collins, Oliver Watt-Rodriguez. Bottom: ?, Dominik Clarke, Oliver Mycka, Ben Bywater,  Leo Barron.
  
  On December 4th, Oliver Mycka appeared (angelically singing "Silent Night) in a YouTube video advertising...a boxing match? The juxtaposition is almost painful, but Oliver's singing is wonderful.
  
  (Although Libera is fully credited in the ad, and presumably received some financial recompense, one does have to ask: whoever thought this was a good idea?)
  
  
  
  

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLJ5XiZKIWQ (Oliver Mycka sings “Silent Night" for a Sky Sports advertisement for a boxing match [Whyte v. Chisora]/:41)

  On December 6th, a charmingly detailed blog appeared, covering the first four days of the Japan tour in October.

   

  The boys play "silent football," dividing into teams indicated by hooded T-shirts worn either normally or backwards.

  
  

   

  Waving goodbye to a standing ovation with musicians in background.

  
  

  //libera.org.uk/blog/japan-journey/

  On December 9th, Libera Alumnus Matt Madine tweeted an indication that he and other alumni would be singing in the December 15th Brighton concert, as they did earlier in the year for the Westminster Cathedral Concert.

  
  
  I’m proud to tell all of you wonderful people, I’m performing with Libera in Brighton, UK this Christmas  Let’s call it “The Return of the Robe Volume 2”  See you there! 

   

  On December 11th, fan WolfPaul posted on the Libera Dreams Forum:
  

  A rather nice review of "Beyond" in the latest edition of "Church Music Quarterly", which is the magazine of the Royal School of Church Music. Scroll to the bottom of the page to read it here:
  
  https://www.rscm.org.uk/our-resources/m ... mber-2018/
  
  On December 12th, a tweet from Libera: 
  

  

  From Left: Ben Wevill, Daniel White, Alexandre Menuet, Victor Wiggin, Mathias Montoro, Koji Shinokubo, Laurence Taylor, Johnny Gardener.
  
  

  December 15th CHRISTMAS CONCERT IN ST. BARTHOLOMEW'S CHURCH, BRIGHTON UK

  

   
  
   
  

  

  

  Program photos by Patrick)

  
  

  

  43 boys!

  
  

  
   
   
  
  
  
  
  
  

  

  These two photos are from the 132-page photo albums sold at the concert, and include a number of as-yet-unidentified miniboys. Top row: Nathaniel Bates-Fisher,  Lawrence Taylor, Joe Cranitch, Johnny Gardener. Middle row: Merlin Brouwer, Leo Barron, Koji Shinokubo, Mathias Montoro. Bottom Row: ?, ?, Jack Spicha, Nicholas Taylor.

   
  
  

  

  Top Row: Alexandre Menuet,  Emanuele Borelli, Alex Gula, Dominik Clarke. Middle Row: Cassius Collard, Daniel White, Ben Wevill. Ben Bywater. Bottom Row: Ethan Barron, ?, ?.

  
  
  
  
  
  

  On December 16th, some new tweets revealed an interesting development in Libera's 2019 schedule. The "rfdocampo" Lauren references is Roberto de Ocampo, OBE, a very distinguished gentleman and longtime friend to Libera.

  
  

  Roberto de Ocampo, OBE, is a Founding Partner of the Centennial Group International, and Chairman of Centennial Asia Advisors. He was the president of the Asian Institute of Management. He was chairman and CEO of the Development Bank of the Philippines in 1989. From 1992 to 98, he served as Secretary of Finance under President Fidel V. Ramos. Thereafter, he was named Finance Minister of the Year by several organizations from 1995, 1996, and 1997.

  Recently, he was named chairman of Philippine Veterans Bank.

   

    
  
  
  
  
  
   
  
  

  Meanwhile, also on December 16th, the amazing Furby, from the Libera Passion site, did his usual spectacularly itemized wrap-up of The Brighton concert, including links to all songs and soloists:

   

   

  
  

  
  

  St Bartholomew's Church (Brighton, UK)		15 décembre 2018
  Horaire : 07:00pm Capacité : 1200 (voir le plan)	Prix : £35.00 (Premium) / £15.00 (General) Billlet	Poster Programme
  Photo / vidéo / audio : - Trivia & Reviews : Christmas concert

  
  

  Tour & Concert Participants
  	Nombre de boys :__43	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 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 Sam Wiggin Victor Wiggin
  	Newbies : (aucun) Dernière apparition en concert : (à définir) Morceau(x) inédit(s) : I Saw Three Ships Nouveau(x) soliste(s) : Cassius Collard (final de Carol of the Bells)
  	Staff : Musical Director Robert Prizeman Assistant Musical Directors Sam Coates & Steven Geraghty Strings Project Instrumental Flute Philippe Barnes Oboe Jesse Bescoby Clarinet Paul Sanders Horn Raoul Neumann Percussion John Ormston Piano / Keyboard Nathaniel Brawn Sound Mixing & Production Sam Coates Sound Engineering Robin Hawkins Lighting Luke Avery Stage Management Kavana Crossley & Matthew Jansen Stage Direction Steven Geraghty Libera co-ordination & chaperone Barbara Geraghty & Angelika Gula Libera management Eleanor Lewis Production Co-ordinator Andrew Winter Programme design & art direction Kathy Kielty
  Setlist & Solis	1- Do You Hear What I Hear (déchant par Leo Barron) 2- Sanctus (version 2) (déchant par Leo Barron) 3- In the Bleak Midwinter (Dominik Clarke) 4- Stay With Me (Oliver Mycka, déchant par Samuel-Francis Collins) 5- Ave Maria (Prizeman) (version 2) (Ben Bywater) 6- The Wexford Carol (Tadhg Fitzgerald) 7- In Paradisum (Robbins) (Rocco Tesei & Oliver Watt-Rodriguez) 8- Smile (Victor Wiggin & Alex Montoro) 9- How Great Thou Art (Oliver Watt-Rodriguez) 10- Voca Me (version 2) (déchant par Leo Barron) 11- I Saw Three Ships	12- Carol Of The Bells (final par Cassius Collard) 13- From a Distance (Merlin Brouwer) 14- Wayfaring Stranger (Victor Wiggin) 15- Gaudete (Samuel-Francis Collins) 16- I Am The Day (Dominik Clarke, Peter Kielty & Oliver Mycka) 17- Joyful Joyful 18- Silent Night (Merlin Brouwer, Ben Bywater, Mathias Montoro, Victor Wiggin, Rocco Tesei & Leo Barron) 18- Libera (Tadhg Fitzgerald & Rocco Tesei) 19- In Dulci Jubilo
  Ressources	Photos :	Vidéo & Audio :
  	Tour reviews & blogs :	Fan discussion : Sujet dédié (forum Libera Passion) Sujet dédié (forum Libera Dreams) Sujet dédié (forum Libera-Welt)

  
  

  On December 17th, a CAPSULE REVIEW OF THE BRIGHTON CONCERT BY JOHN45 (Photos by Sebastién)

  
  

   

  
  

  
  I’ll leave the details of the concert to others but for future jogging of my failing memory I will record here favourite moments of the additions and variations in the repertoire.
  
  Oliver Watt-Rodriguez opening “Do you hear what I hear”. I am told this was sung last year but I don’t remember it being so good. Lovely arrangement.
  
  Joseph Cranitch's’s speech introducing “In the Bleak Mid-Winter” in which he managed to get in an ad-lib (I think) about the weather. Very nice performance by Dominik Clarke.
  
  This was Ben Bywater's's first solo performance of "Ave Maria" and it was wonderful. His voice has developed beautifully with such richness and clarity, and he is able to reach those elusive high notes with confidence and ease.

  
  
  Tadhg Fitzgerals singing “The Wexford Carol” had been on everyone’s wish list and he did not disappoint. Beautiful voice for a beautiful song. 

  
  

  

  A good (though flash-eyed) shot of some of the alumni who returned for this concert: From Left in back row: Taichi Shinokubo, Matthew Jansen, Ciaran Bradbury-Hickey, Matt Madine, Sam Wiggin, Gabriel Collins, Adam Izghouti. From Right in the row below them: Marc Alvares, Camden Stewart, Alex Montoro.

  
  Very nice “How Great Thou Art” by Oliver Watt-Rodriguez. He has a versatile voice. Rich and full of expression in this hymn and lighter for “For the Future”.
  
  The best performance of the night for me was “I Saw Three Ships”. Amazing arrangement by Sam Coates. Very lively and very complex but obviously enjoyed immensely by the performers as well as the audience.
  
  "Gaudete" has been sung many times before, but not with an introduction by Samuel-Francis Collins. Just perfect.
  
  I have no idea what Jack Spicha really said in what sounded like perfect Russian but have a suspicion something was lost in Johnnie Gardener’s translation.
  
  Finally, "Silent Night," another bonus a capella masterpiece from the magnificent six: Merlin Brouwer, Ben Bywater, Mathias Montoro, Victor Wiggin, Rocco Tesei and Leo Barron.
  
  It does not seem possible, but it really does just get better and better.
  
  Thanks Libera.  

  
  

   
   REVIEW BY filiarheni:
  
  There were 18 songs listed in the programme plus Silent Night plus In Dulci Jubilo as the encore. 8 of these 20 songs were Christmas songs, which will certainly be sung in Moscow as well.
  
  Libera opened the concert with Do You Hear What I Hear, a very charming song with shining echoes by the solo voices; a very logical arrangement by Robert Prizeman.
  
  To my own surprise, one of my favourite songs of the concert was In the Bleak Midwinter. Before, I had found it nice, but nothing special. But what admirable arrangement Robert made out of it! The song started very "reduced,"just with an instrumental bourdon accompaniment to the singing, perfectly realising the lyrics about a frozen (petrified) earth. Then step by step the harmonies were building up throughout the song, extending in diversity and increasing in colour, and from the more mystic beginning the song developed to the harmonies of nowadays we know. I felt like going from darkness and loneliness to hopeful light and consolation. It also linked the ancient through time to the modern and thus conveyed something universal. It was very impressive, just elevating.
  
  Samuel-Francis Collins did the vocalises on Stay With Me and started a bit roughly. So it was all the more masterful how he improved from one time to the next and ended up with delivering it perfectly. I really enjoyed witnessing that. Sam, that was well-done!
  
  This also demonstrates that no boy should worry about things that might go wrong here and there. I'd like to particularly say that to Victor Wiggin, because I deeply sympathised with him when he had a very short lyrics black-out at the beginning of Smile, as he visibly suffered from that. He seemed so upset that I felt like telling him: 'It's all fine, everyone in this room knows exactly that you can do it fabulously; just do not let this stupid bad luck bother you, please.' He did continue fine, but obviously carried this tiny mishap as a burden throughout the song, although there was absolutely no reason for that, as I want to emphasise: He was good!  But so the song converted into the most serious Smile I've ever seen from him.
  So I was very happy for him to have a second solo song, Wayfaring Stranger. He had gained back all confidence we know from him by then and he sang the song beautifully and flawlessly.
  
  Wexford Carol had been my wish list song number one and when I heard its intro from behind the glass, where we followed Libera's rehearsal, comfortably crowding on small space and sheltering from the pouring rain at the same time, my first thought was: "You confuse it. Your wishful thinking deceives you." But it did not. And can anything better happen to you than safely anticipating the concert song you were yearning for most?! This song in the Libera arrangement is synonymous with atmosphere. No more words needed. Tadhg  Fitzgerald sang an excellent solo with a wonderful voice.
  
  My soloist of the evening was Oliver Watt-Rodriguez. I heard him with How Great Thou Art for the first time and was entirely enchanted. I like his voice very much, it has a very beautiful sound, is clear and round, and Oliver was perfectly hitting the notes. He sang in a plain, self-evident way, completely calm, which also had a calming effect on me. Thank you, Oliver, you really reached me with your singing. The whole song was as perfectly sung as usual.
  What a luxury to be able to call perfect performances the norm. This is Libera. 
  
  The second soloist who stood out for me was Dominik Clarke. I had been very curious about him before and now I can only say that I find him brilliant! He confirms my earlier impression of him to be a musically particularly talented boy. He visibly loves singing and I think he understands the music Libera sings indeed. He obviously has an excellent feeling for the music and where others may need a sign by Robert Prizeman, he does not, as he knows exactly where and how to sing. Over the whole evening he was fully on spot. It is a thorough joy to watch him: He goes with the music, but never makes a show out if, just acts like the music requires it, nothing more and nothing less. This is what I saw. What I heard was a very pleasant voice and a secure way of singing! I'm really very convinced of him.
  Dominik seems extremely serious about music, and I could very well imagine him as a music professional ... yes, yes, later. 
  
  Voca Me was particularly strong this time. Towards the end, when the tension is steeply going up, the choir sound became close to exploding. Goosebumps - what else!
  
  I Saw Three Ships had been unknown to me and what a fantastic full choir sound Libera presented here! It was just so uplifting in its vivid rhythmics and with this very committed choir, I don't think that anyone in the audience was not moved - well yes, also in the literal meaning - by this song. Libera appeared very united, which may also have been a result of the compact formation. Terrific arrangement once more by Sam Coates. Wow!
  
  Unfortunately, the sweeping effect of this song was missing in Carol of the Bells. This was my only disappointment of the concert, as at home it never gets away with being played only once, there's always at least one repetition of it. And after hearing it in an enthralling way in two other Libera concerts, this time, as we say it in German, "the spark did not jump over". Technically, the singing was excellent, but this usually so energising song somehow was subdued. Perhaps it was the lack of space on stage, which deprived the boys of the possibility to move as they are used to move, which resulted in this effect on the singing. I don't know. I only know that the song did not manage to get me involved this time.
  Neither I felt happy about the percussion in parts of the song. There were too many different kinds of sounds used within too short time, which probably was meant to provide this song with diversity, but to me rather brought in a nervous touch, because the song itself is - positively meant - "busy" enough.
  Cassius  Collard did a cuddly, fine solo calls at the end, all good with that.
  
  The third soloist who impressed me most - almost to tears - was well-known to all of us, but that night I think he exceeded himself with his performance of From a Distance. Merlin Brouwer's voice sounded marvelous, clear and strong, but gentle at the same time, adequately conveying the very human message of the lyrics. It is generally not my favourite song, but here it really captured me.
  
  I was very happy to hear Samuel-Francis Collins with his own text solo, Gaudete. I found he showed some nerves, but his voice shone so brightly and he hit the high notes so flawlessly that I have no doubts about him. I'm very much looking forward to his further development and to hearing him again.
  
  While I loved In the Bleak Midwinter for its own sake, I was absolutely stunned by Dominik Clarke's solo in I am the Day. He not only sang it, he lived it. The whole Dominik was an embodiment of the mysterious whispers. With all his modesty, he clearly possesses stage presence!
  And thanks to the soloists as well as to the choir, the song became an undisputed highlight of the concert for me!
  
  The very moving song Silent Night was the same in terms of soloists and construction as Nearer My God to Thee. Reducing the arrangement to a minimum once again worked and actually matched the still happiness and entire peace expressed in the lyrics and the melody just perfectly.
  
  Libera was strong in tone and a joy to listen to.
  
  Salva Me.
  Oops.
  No Salva Me.
  How is that possible?
  Unbelievable, weird, impossible, that is.  A concert without the song I consider as the typical Libera song is incomplete. I find that this must be changed back, as no other song could ever replace Salva Me, the real Salva Me! 
  
  I'm fully reconciled, and my pain about not having been able to attend Libera's concert this past October has vanished after this concert with such a long row of deep voices. Now how wonderful that was! They played an important role in this concert, decisively contributing to the songs in terms of harmonies and atmosphere. Future repetitions would be much appreciated. 
  
  About the speeches: Joseph Cranitch definitely has speaking qualities. It is a pleasure to listen to him. Also, I simply love the way Moose is introduced, with a lot of enthusiasm: "This is Moose! The real Moose!". So funny. I also had fun with Alexandre Menuet who, instead of just pointing at Victor Wiggin who was modeling for the presentation of the robe, smashed his full arm in Victor's direction with such drive that I feared for a split second he'd actually hit him.  And Koji Shinokubo makes me laugh as well. His speech just comes sputtering out of him, and he is having fun with it as well.
  
  Regarding the orchestra, who played with much sensitivity, I'd first like to highlight a satisfied smile on the face of one of the violinists during the concert. He must have greatly enjoyed the music and this was so nice to watch. And second: I loved the French horn. I always like this instrument, but this time I heard it very distinctly and it added so much character to the wonderful harmonies
  
  I liked the venue, St. Bartholomew's. It has a mystic atmosphere and at the same time something comfortable. Hard to describe, but, apart from the slimmest chairs you can imagine - do they think that a children's choir also has a child audience? - and an unpleasant lack of heating, it was a good venue for a Libera concert. The lighting worked in a very splendid way as well.
  The sound was magnificent. Was it the big size of the choir? The high number of men's voices? The venue's acoustics? Probably all of it.
  
  To sum it up, this has been another high quality concert with a very present choir. A huge enjoyment for me, and this time with less sadness afterwards, as I'm lucky enough to travel to the Moscow concert next week. Many thanks to Libera and all others who made this a beautiful, successful concert! You have recharged my batteries in a currently extremely stressful time. It is so justified to do these concert trips. We invest in them, but how much more do we get in return! 
  
  I would also like to express a heartfelt Thank You as well to other Libera fans who proved to be exceptionally thoughtful. It makes me feel warm inside.
  
  This was a great musical weekend.—filiarheni
  
  For more reviews of the Brighton concert, go to Page four at: 
   
  

  http://www.forum.libera-dreams.com/viewtopic.php?f=36&p=53710&sid=05f2530254bb5902a9db7738c6a57943#p53710

  
  
  AN AMUSING INCIDENT 
  
  
  

  Libera of the US

  Published on Dec 16, 2018

  A local boy was minding his own business, playing Fortnite while waiting his turn for the trampolines, when suddenly he had a choir for an audience.

  
  

   

  
  

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ew-tGupD-iA&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR0PP5RwdJGwCbKhf2agstcJIpkHgHB1aAXK3agSIWw4TWT4LkG0MA6jqfo (Fortnite

  
  
  "Look out for a new Christmas CD in 2019" is the inconspicuous note in the programme of the Brighton concert last Saturday.—filiarheni
  
  

   

  
  

  On December 19th, Libera Passion's Furby posted ID photos of two more miniboys, Frederick Mushrafi and Luca Brugnoli on his latest list of participating Libera members at: libera-passion.exprimetoi.net/t1110-apercu-des-membres-actuels-maj-decembre-2018#24512 …

  
  
  

  

    
  On December 21st, Libera tweeted its annual Christmas Greeting video, this one with a distinctly international flavor.
  
  

  

  Calam Virk Tamana is one of numerous Libera boys wishing us "Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year" in at least ten languages.(Language analysis below by Surpinto)
  

  
   

  1. Romeo Tesei- English (0:02).
  2. Emanuele Borelli- Italian (0:05).
  3. Koji Shinokubo - Japanese (0:07).
  4. Alexandre Menuet- French (0:09).
  5. Victor Wiggin - French (0:11).
  6. Matthias Montoro - Italian (0:12).
  7. Alex Montoro - Italian (0:15).
  8. Ethan  Barron - Greek (0:18).
  9. Leo Barron - Greek (0:21).
  10. Merlin Brouwer - Dutch (0:25).
  11. Oliver Mycka - Polish (0:28).
  12. Tadhg Fitzgerald - Gaelic (0:31).
  13. Dominik Clarke - Polish (0:32).
  14. Johnny Gardner - English (0:35).
  15. Samuel-Francis Collins - Combination of Italian and Spanish (0:37).
  16. Joe Cranitch - English (0:39).
  17. Alex Gula - Polish (0:41).
  18. Jack Spicha - Russian (0:44).
  19. Calam Virk Tamana - guess only: Punjabi (0:47).
  20. Camden Stewart - Akan (0:51).
  21. Taichi Shinokubo - Japanese (0:55).
  22. Oliver Watt-Rodriguez - Spanish (0:57).
  23. Laurence Taylor- English (0:59).
  24. Frederick Mushrafi - English (1:02).
  25. Luca Brugnoli - Spanish (1:04).
  26. Nathaniel Bates-Fisher - English (1:06).
  27. Nicholas Taylor - English (1:08).
  28. Ben Bywater - English (1:10).
  29. Peter Kielty - English (1:13).

  
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_XSAlnw_bng (Libera 2018 Holiday Greeting/1:25)  
  
  On December 24th:
  
   
  

  
  
  
  

  They sung 'Once in Royal David's city', with firsts lines in solo by Victor
  
  (It was really easy to find a free internet stream on internet, to see it live from abroad—Patrick) )
  

  

  Victor Wiggin

  

  Daniel White, Victor Wiggin, Mathias Montoro

  
  

  

  Ben Wevill, Alexandre Menuet

  

  Koji Shinokubo, Laurence Taylor, Johnny Gardner

  

  
  
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DsIwPmUssio&t=6s (Once in Royal David’s City/Christmas Carols on ITV/solo by Victor Wiggin/2018/2:47)
  
  
  
  

  December 25th, and a Merry Christmas gift to all of those fans who thought the  2013 Tonight Show version of "Carol of the Bells" was lost forever.

  
  

   

  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4Eg5KWb_URyOXJzdTQ0WG14Qlk/view (Carol of the Bells/Tonight Show/solos by Thomas Delgado-Little, Lucas Wood, and Cassius O'Connell-White/3:36)

  
  

  And another treat, the lush full version of the theme Libera recorded for the Japanese TV show Shitamachi Rocket, courtesy of Tunecore Japan:

  
  

   

  
  

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4UASdt2tmA (Headlight-Taillight; Theme from Shitamachi Rocket TV Show [full version]/2018/4:50)
  
  A TWEET FROM LIBERA
  
  
  

  We have been greatly honoured to be featured in the soundtrack of the famous Japanese drama series ‘Shitamachi Rocket’. ‘Headlight, Taillight’ will appear in the TBS programme on 2nd January. Our recording can be downloaded here... https://buff.ly/2LyxtPo
  
  CONCERT IN MOSCOW
  
  
   

  The huge video screen on the south side of the music hall. Perhaps the largest ever to advertise for a Libera concert?—Patrick
  
   
  
  

   

  The boys pose at the venue, Zaryadyehall

   
  

  

  
  
   
  
  
  

  30 boys on stage, the same as in Brighton, minus Ben Wevill. Same songs and soloists. "Do You Hear What I Hear:" intro by four boys, Oliver Watt-Rodriguez, Camden Stewart (center), Samuel-Francis Collins (right), Ben Bywater (left). "Sanctus: " the Four tall boys left stage (Alex Gula and Alex Montoro , Camden Stewart, Marc Alvares). High notes by Samuel-Francis.—Patrick
  
  Singers:
  
  Marc Alvares
  Ethan Barron
  Leo Barron
  Nathaniel Bates-Fisher
  Emanuele Borrelli
  Merlin Brouwer
  Benedict Bywater
  Dominik Clarke
  Cassius Collard
  Samuel-Francis Collins
  Joseph Cranitch
  Tadhg Fitzgerald
  John Gardner
  Alexander Gula
  Peter Kielty
  Alexandre Menuet
  Alexander Montoro
  Mathias Montoro
  Oliver Mycka
  Neo Parson
  Koji Shinokubo
  Jack Spicha
  Camden Stewart
  Laurence Taylor
  Nicholas Taylor
  Rocco Tesei
  Romeo Tesei
  Calam Virk Tamana
  Oliver Watt-Rodriguez
  Samuel Wiggin

  
  

  
  

   
  

   Set List (From Brighton Concert)
  
  1. Do You Hear What I Hear - Oliver Watt-Rodriguez, Camden Stewart, Ben Bywater, Samuel-Francis Collins
  2. Sanctus - Leo Barron high notes
  3. Welcome Speech -  (in Moscow, Dominik Clarke and Oliver Mycka
  4.In the Bleak Midwinter - Dominik Clarke
  5. Stay With Me - Oliver Mycka & Samuel-Francis Collins on high notes
  6.Ave Maria (Prizeman) - Ben Bywater 
  (7. Speech about robes - presumably not given in Moscow)
  8. Wexford Carol - Tadgh Fitzgerald
  9. In Paradisum (Robbins) - Rocco Tesei & Oliver Watt-Rodriguez
  10. Smile - Victor Wiggin & Alex Montoro
  11. How Great Thou Art - Oliver Watt-Rodriguez 
  (12. Speech - Koji & Cassius about first tour and not spilling drink on robes at the interval
  presumably not given in Moscow)
   13. Voca Me - Leo Barron high notes
  14. I Saw Three Ships - new arrangement by Sam Coates
  15. Carol of the Bells - solos Samuel-Francis Collins and Ben Bywater; final "ding-don" etc. by Cassius Collard
  (16. Speech about moose - presumably not given in Moscow)
  17. From a Distance - Merlin Brouwer
  18. Wayfaring Stranger - Victor Wiggin
  19. Gaudete - Samuel-Francis Collins
  20. I am the Day - Dominik Clarke, Peter Kielty, Oliver Mycka 
  21. Joyful, Joyful
  (22. Goodbye speech - Jack Spicha?)
  23. Silent Night - Merlin Brouwer, Ben Bywater, Matthius Montoro, Victor Wiggin, Rocco Tesei, Leo Barron (started a cappella and then a harp joined in)
  24. Libera - Tadgh Fitzgerald , Rocco Tesei, final note Samuel-Francis Collins
  25. In Dulci Jubilo
  
  Intermission. Wonderful concert so far. Huge reactions from the public, very long applauses. Speeches in Russian from Dominik Clarke and Oliver Mycka. The public applauded after each of Dominik's sentences, the boys were amazed. Oliver managed to not allow gaps and he was not interrupted.—Patrick
  
  

  

  
  

  

  Translation: natasha_culkova Libera boys choir! Divinely! Angels 👼! This is heaven!
  
   
   

  

  On December 30th, Russian Libera fan George Scerbakov posted an English version of his very candid review of the Moscow Concert
  
  
  
  https://libera-et-autres.blogspot.com/2018/12/libera-concert-in-moscow-shorter-review.html?fbclid=IwAR0d96W12TCLCdmdJOnuayXtizDj-H76dzGfv_fXyiTI_s8A4x2ylPQcdxY (Review of 2018 Moscow concert by George Scerbakov )
    
   A MESSAGE FROM LIBERA OF THE US
  
  
  

  It's that time of year again!
  For those of you who have donated to Libera of the US in the 2018 tax year, we'd like to let you know that your year-end receipts will be processed and delivered soon after January 1, 2019.
  
  If you're a regular donor and would like to add another contribution before the end of the year, now's the time! If you haven't yet donated to Libera of the US, we'd love to add you to our family.
  
  Your donations will help fund Libera's 2019 summer tour in the United States. Please consider making a donation at https://libera.org
  
  The cities for the tour have yet to be decided, but there will probably be 5 or 6 concerts around the US in 2019. We hope to see you at one or more of the concerts.
  
  Visit https://libera.org or watch your email for all the upcoming 2019 news!
  

  
  
  For those who are unaware, tours to the United States are not money-makers when considering the many travel costs and other expenses of touring such a geographically huge country. So while the shows are usually fairly successful in and of themselves, they cannot draw the 2,000+ at premium prices that a show in Tokyo can bring in. For this reason tours to the US need to be subsidized through donations from fans like us! I have been contributing to Libera of the US (and Libera itself in the UK) for some time now and will continue to do so using their monthly donations option. I can't afford to give them as much as I want, but even a small, but regular, contribution helps. I hope that everyone who is able can help in making this happen.

   

  On December 31st, Libera Passion's Furby posted an updated list of participants in the Moscow concert at:
  http://libera-passion.exprimetoi.net/t1110-apercu-des-membres-actuels-maj-decembre-2018?fbclid=IwAR1dA_BL-j_GPFGq6kbRq8bkvz-BJxHbJQrNmWgNa35HaIW5rpNf7YBuNR4#24512
  
     
  End of Part 11A;For Part 12, Please go to:  https://liberahistoricaltimelinepart12.blogspot.com/