We have uploaded a video of Bayan Ko, a song we performed in our recent concerts in the Philippines, as a gift to the Philippine people who showed us such hospitality on our tour there. This traditional Philippine song touched the hearts of the audience causing the spontaneous applause which we feel adds to the emotion of the piece.
Performed at the PICC, Manila. Visit our website at http://www.libera.org.uk You are welcome to link and embed this video in websites, blogs etc. but please do not rip it or re-upload it - use the code and url provided.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vCTcEN-tBA
Bayan Ko
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Twitter-October 31
Sorry to be leaving the Philippines, but looking forward to being back with our families. http://bit.ly/4wG0OD
about 9 hours ago
about 9 hours ago
Friday, October 30, 2009
Twitter-October 29
As we depart the Philippines to go back home to England we want to leave a present. So here is our performance of Bayan Ko. We hope you enjoy it. Mabuhay!! 4 hours ago
Back in Manila after 3 breathtaking days in Cebu. Thanks to all who came to our concert and those who looked after us so well. Mabuhay!
Yesterday at 9:24am via TweetDeck
Back in Manila after 3 breathtaking days in Cebu. Thanks to all who came to our concert and those who looked after us so well. Mabuhay!
Yesterday at 9:24am via TweetDeck
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Concert Review From Cebu
This review came from Libera 360 website.
It was a warm Sunday night, and Libera was about to start their first of 2 concerts in the Philippines for the first time. I bought 2 tickets, one right at the very front and center, one a row behind it... just to make sure i get a good view. The Concert started promptly at 8pm manila time. I arrived 40 minutes before the start and not more than a couple of hundred people were in. within 20 minutes, the place was jam packed, with at least 30% of the crowed being kids 7-15 year olds. Libera started off with "Adoramus". The lights danced with the beat while audience welcomed the boys with a vibrant applause. They went straight to "Gloria" which was welcomed with another chest shattering applause from the crowed. After Gloria, Ralph and Josh introduced Mini Ben and the next song which was "Far Away." While they were welcoming the Philippine Fans to another one of their concert, a seemingly tired Kavana gave a quick yawn on the side.
Next song was "Stay With Me". Daniel Fontanaz did an amazingly great job on this song! His voice was crystal clear and i didnt detect a single sign of tension on his voice. He sang like a Libera veteran, and flashed a full smile after the song which was returned by a long applause from the crowd. The high parts of "Stay with Me' was shared by Mini-Ben and Matthew.The next song was "Sancte", where Liam led the solo as he kneels in front. This was given another round of grateful applause.The stage faded to black, and when it lit up, Sammy Moriarty was in front and shared a little experience on their recent tour. he then proceeded to introducing the next song which was Secret. The high parts of the intro was played by Fiona's violin solo. The boys split into two groups where Mini-Ben emerged from the back to sing "Secret". The highlight of this song was surprising to me, because it was Jakob Wood who sang with Ben on the high parts. As the song closes, the two halves merged back together with each group facing each other. The close in and right in front was Kavana (left) and James Starkey (right), they ended up face to face where Kavana gave a quick giggle.The next song was salva me where a hooded Stefan Leadbeater was singing the high parts on an elevated podium. I noticed Kavanna as he sang his piece with a lot of feelings and animation. Tom and Josh was towering at the back looking down at the smaller ones with a sense of satisfaction in his face like saying "...our future and secured."Next was the all famous "Sanctus". Stefan and Kavana shared the top notes on this song. Stefan closed with the descending lines on top notes.
Ralph and Ben this time made another interesting adlib, with Ben, with his lively antics tickled the crowed and introduced the last song of the first half which was "Libera".Liam lead the boys in singing Libera. his voice hasn't changed a bit! Honestly i was a little worried if he was gonna make the high part on the ending, seeing how big Liam has gotten, but he virtually WOWED the crowd with his top D finale. The Crowed burst into a 47 second long applause and the lights went out for a 20 minute break.
At the 2nd half, 12 boys came in first, then another group followed with their hoods on and sang "Sakura". This progressed smoothly into "When a Knight Won it's Spurs" where Stefan did the Solo.After this was "Hymn to Beauty". The amazing blending on this song was really something to behold. Then it was James and Freddie who came to join Flynn and Kavanna in front for "Prayer".Liam, Freddie and James did the intro for Fiona on Violin, Robert and Steven on keyboards. They then proceeded to present the next song which was "You Were There".For "You Were There", Josh lead the band with a notable input by little Henry Barrington and Kavanna on the far left side. Accompanying josh on this song was Ben. Directly after this, an all familiar tune started and the crowed burst into a wild applause as "Orinoco Flow" started to play.
At the part of the song where the lyrics are:Turn it up turn it up turn it up Ah-ah-adieu ooh Turn it up turn it up turn it up Ah-ah-adieu ooh Josh was accompanied by Jakob Wood on this notable part. The song finished with a thunderous applause.After this, Mini-Ben did his all famous talk with the "hood" and made a great "Ghost" impression while his hood was down. He introduced the next song which was "Sacris Solemnis".On "Sacris Solemnis" again it was Jakob Wood who did the highest part alternating with Stef who did the stanza part.After the song, the stage darkened again and the boys moved about. i noticed something funny while they were moving, because as it was pitch black, one of the boys has a green light inside their robe apparently. When the lights turned on it was Stefan. I guess he has slipped in his Mobile Phone or PSP even!They sang "Love and Mercy" after this, Josh led them in singing with Daniel joining him.
Freddie introduced the next song which was "I am the Day", and thanked everyone for coming to see them. Josh and Sleg led the singing as the sang IATD amidst the blinding glow of light that enveloped the stage into a heavenly glow which made the boys look more like the Angels they are.The stage darkened, and off they went. The crowed all standing up, yelling for more with 3,500 people simultaneously clapping like crazy and begging for more of the boys.With an anticipated move, they lit the stage up again for their encore. My mind and heart was racing and thinking what could be the song they chose to perform???
With the boys lined up on a semi circular formation, they started humming... it became louder... and louder... and the all too familiar song became to sound clear. It was "BANYAN KO" (My Country)!!! This is a Nationalistic Folk Song in Tagalog (the national language of the Philippines) which is usually sung on national gatherings to invoke patriotism. It was Mini-Ben who led the boys in singing this song which rendered the crowed awed, shouting, gasping and crying. Yes people were tearing up, I know I was. Ben's Tagalog was as clear as can be. It was as if Tagalog was his second language and that he was speaking it for years now. Their rendition was absolute perfection as a GREATFUL Filipino crowed fell in love with a group of boys from south London. A perfect ending to their first concert in the Philippines.After the concert, the crowd gathered in the lobby of the Plenary hall and anticipated the boys. When they appeared for the autograph signing, people cheered and shouted "We Love You!" to the tired but always smiling members. They greeted the crowed with enthusiasm and the Philippines fell in love with them a second time.
A fitting description came from Former Finance Secretary and Chairman of the BAA Dr. Robert de Ocampo: "Libera shows it's self to be both a vocal tour de force and a refreshingly conscientious inspiration, and a now major element in fostering close and excellent Philippine-UK relations as well." He referred to the boys as "Ambassadors of Goodwill", as the boys healed this grieving nation from the past and recent tragedies it has undergone.On the 28th, one hour south of Manila by plane, Cebu will get a chance to fall in love with them. So I'm packing my bags now and I'll see you in Cebu.
Side Notes:
*In between the introduction to "Far Away", Alfie was seen with his right hand tucked inside his robe as he was scratching his left shoulder. funny how he slipped inside his robe leaving the right sleeve dangling.
*Among the 22 boys present, 9 of them wore Lapel Microphones hooked to their ear. They were, I presume, the ones who sang an important part on the concert. (not that the others are not important off course). These boys were:Kavanna Steff Josh Liam Ben Sammy M. Daniel Flynn and Jakob
*Interesting to note that this was the tour where Jakob played a noticeable part in a major concert. and he did it extremely well.
It was a warm Sunday night, and Libera was about to start their first of 2 concerts in the Philippines for the first time. I bought 2 tickets, one right at the very front and center, one a row behind it... just to make sure i get a good view. The Concert started promptly at 8pm manila time. I arrived 40 minutes before the start and not more than a couple of hundred people were in. within 20 minutes, the place was jam packed, with at least 30% of the crowed being kids 7-15 year olds. Libera started off with "Adoramus". The lights danced with the beat while audience welcomed the boys with a vibrant applause. They went straight to "Gloria" which was welcomed with another chest shattering applause from the crowed. After Gloria, Ralph and Josh introduced Mini Ben and the next song which was "Far Away." While they were welcoming the Philippine Fans to another one of their concert, a seemingly tired Kavana gave a quick yawn on the side.
Next song was "Stay With Me". Daniel Fontanaz did an amazingly great job on this song! His voice was crystal clear and i didnt detect a single sign of tension on his voice. He sang like a Libera veteran, and flashed a full smile after the song which was returned by a long applause from the crowd. The high parts of "Stay with Me' was shared by Mini-Ben and Matthew.The next song was "Sancte", where Liam led the solo as he kneels in front. This was given another round of grateful applause.The stage faded to black, and when it lit up, Sammy Moriarty was in front and shared a little experience on their recent tour. he then proceeded to introducing the next song which was Secret. The high parts of the intro was played by Fiona's violin solo. The boys split into two groups where Mini-Ben emerged from the back to sing "Secret". The highlight of this song was surprising to me, because it was Jakob Wood who sang with Ben on the high parts. As the song closes, the two halves merged back together with each group facing each other. The close in and right in front was Kavana (left) and James Starkey (right), they ended up face to face where Kavana gave a quick giggle.The next song was salva me where a hooded Stefan Leadbeater was singing the high parts on an elevated podium. I noticed Kavanna as he sang his piece with a lot of feelings and animation. Tom and Josh was towering at the back looking down at the smaller ones with a sense of satisfaction in his face like saying "...our future and secured."Next was the all famous "Sanctus". Stefan and Kavana shared the top notes on this song. Stefan closed with the descending lines on top notes.
Ralph and Ben this time made another interesting adlib, with Ben, with his lively antics tickled the crowed and introduced the last song of the first half which was "Libera".Liam lead the boys in singing Libera. his voice hasn't changed a bit! Honestly i was a little worried if he was gonna make the high part on the ending, seeing how big Liam has gotten, but he virtually WOWED the crowd with his top D finale. The Crowed burst into a 47 second long applause and the lights went out for a 20 minute break.
At the 2nd half, 12 boys came in first, then another group followed with their hoods on and sang "Sakura". This progressed smoothly into "When a Knight Won it's Spurs" where Stefan did the Solo.After this was "Hymn to Beauty". The amazing blending on this song was really something to behold. Then it was James and Freddie who came to join Flynn and Kavanna in front for "Prayer".Liam, Freddie and James did the intro for Fiona on Violin, Robert and Steven on keyboards. They then proceeded to present the next song which was "You Were There".For "You Were There", Josh lead the band with a notable input by little Henry Barrington and Kavanna on the far left side. Accompanying josh on this song was Ben. Directly after this, an all familiar tune started and the crowed burst into a wild applause as "Orinoco Flow" started to play.
At the part of the song where the lyrics are:Turn it up turn it up turn it up Ah-ah-adieu ooh Turn it up turn it up turn it up Ah-ah-adieu ooh Josh was accompanied by Jakob Wood on this notable part. The song finished with a thunderous applause.After this, Mini-Ben did his all famous talk with the "hood" and made a great "Ghost" impression while his hood was down. He introduced the next song which was "Sacris Solemnis".On "Sacris Solemnis" again it was Jakob Wood who did the highest part alternating with Stef who did the stanza part.After the song, the stage darkened again and the boys moved about. i noticed something funny while they were moving, because as it was pitch black, one of the boys has a green light inside their robe apparently. When the lights turned on it was Stefan. I guess he has slipped in his Mobile Phone or PSP even!They sang "Love and Mercy" after this, Josh led them in singing with Daniel joining him.
Freddie introduced the next song which was "I am the Day", and thanked everyone for coming to see them. Josh and Sleg led the singing as the sang IATD amidst the blinding glow of light that enveloped the stage into a heavenly glow which made the boys look more like the Angels they are.The stage darkened, and off they went. The crowed all standing up, yelling for more with 3,500 people simultaneously clapping like crazy and begging for more of the boys.With an anticipated move, they lit the stage up again for their encore. My mind and heart was racing and thinking what could be the song they chose to perform???
With the boys lined up on a semi circular formation, they started humming... it became louder... and louder... and the all too familiar song became to sound clear. It was "BANYAN KO" (My Country)!!! This is a Nationalistic Folk Song in Tagalog (the national language of the Philippines) which is usually sung on national gatherings to invoke patriotism. It was Mini-Ben who led the boys in singing this song which rendered the crowed awed, shouting, gasping and crying. Yes people were tearing up, I know I was. Ben's Tagalog was as clear as can be. It was as if Tagalog was his second language and that he was speaking it for years now. Their rendition was absolute perfection as a GREATFUL Filipino crowed fell in love with a group of boys from south London. A perfect ending to their first concert in the Philippines.After the concert, the crowd gathered in the lobby of the Plenary hall and anticipated the boys. When they appeared for the autograph signing, people cheered and shouted "We Love You!" to the tired but always smiling members. They greeted the crowed with enthusiasm and the Philippines fell in love with them a second time.
A fitting description came from Former Finance Secretary and Chairman of the BAA Dr. Robert de Ocampo: "Libera shows it's self to be both a vocal tour de force and a refreshingly conscientious inspiration, and a now major element in fostering close and excellent Philippine-UK relations as well." He referred to the boys as "Ambassadors of Goodwill", as the boys healed this grieving nation from the past and recent tragedies it has undergone.On the 28th, one hour south of Manila by plane, Cebu will get a chance to fall in love with them. So I'm packing my bags now and I'll see you in Cebu.
Side Notes:
*In between the introduction to "Far Away", Alfie was seen with his right hand tucked inside his robe as he was scratching his left shoulder. funny how he slipped inside his robe leaving the right sleeve dangling.
*Among the 22 boys present, 9 of them wore Lapel Microphones hooked to their ear. They were, I presume, the ones who sang an important part on the concert. (not that the others are not important off course). These boys were:Kavanna Steff Josh Liam Ben Sammy M. Daniel Flynn and Jakob
*Interesting to note that this was the tour where Jakob played a noticeable part in a major concert. and he did it extremely well.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Philippine Daily Inquirer October 27
Philippines—A kind of hush descends on the Pacific Ballroom of Waterfront
Lahug in Cebu Wednesday night, such as the one that, on Sunday evening, gently blanketed the Philippine International Convention Center at the CCP Complex.
The boys of the UK-based Libera, 22 of them representing the whole group of 40, performed every number in the 20-song
repertoire expertly, delicately. They were rewarded with enthusiastic applause for each, and a standing ovation in the end that lasted a full minute, a relative rarity in these parts.
“Angelic Voices,” the concert title claimed. Well, the “sounds of heaven,” as noted by Dr. Roberto de Ocampo, British Alumni Association chair and former finance secretary (who brought the group over), came with attractive packaging, too. The boys looked like well-scrubbed, happy young monks in their white robes.
The songs were mostly liturgical compositions, although the clear audience favorite was a rendition of Enya’s “Orinoco Flow.” Ours was “Far Away,” “Sanctus,” ” and the one that took Ocampo’s breath away, for good reason: “I Am the Day” (“I am the light before the morning, the end and the beginning …”).
The numbers were interspersed with wide-eyed storytelling of the boys’ innocent adventures: “Once we had no time to change into street clothes; we rushed to the airport in our robes.” Also of their routines: “We change places so often onstage, in the dark, so we rehearse with blindfolds, or with eyes closed.”
We can imagine how moved the audience was on an earlier tour, when Libera performed “Sakura” in Japan. For their encore at the PICC, the boys sang “Bayan Ko”! Moist eyes all around—and then an explosion of “Bravos!” Emmie G. Velarde
Philippine Daily Inquirer October 27
Twitter-October 27 & 28
Another fantastic reception. Thank you Cebu.
28 minutes ago from TweetDeck Not long to go before our Cebu concert. We think it might be another sell-out....
about 8 hours ago from TweetDeck Short review of our PICC concert in the Philippine Daily Inquirer.... http://bit.ly/2jUtk
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck @carlmans Sorry - no pictures or recordings may be taken during the concert
about 23 hours ago from TweetDeck in reply to carlmansWe now have over six thousand fans on Facebook. That's a thousand new supporters in just 2 weeks! Thank you so... http://bit.ly/nx9hw
about 23 hours ago from Facebook Many fans here in the shopping mall in Cebu - they're here to get CDs signed by Libera boys. http://bit.ly/vc2RH
2:11 AM Oct 27th from Facebook Many fans here in the shopping mall in Cebu - they're here to get CDs signed by Libera boys.
2:10 AM Oct 27th from TweetDeck Arrived safely in Cebu. Met with ceremonial prayer dance and flower necklaces.
12:06 AM Oct 27th from TweetDeck Nice relaxing day today after our concert yesterday in PICC. Next stop Cebu.... http://bit.ly/8snvG
6:27 AM Oct 26th from Facebook
28 minutes ago from TweetDeck Not long to go before our Cebu concert. We think it might be another sell-out....
about 8 hours ago from TweetDeck Short review of our PICC concert in the Philippine Daily Inquirer.... http://bit.ly/2jUtk
about 22 hours ago from TweetDeck @carlmans Sorry - no pictures or recordings may be taken during the concert
about 23 hours ago from TweetDeck in reply to carlmansWe now have over six thousand fans on Facebook. That's a thousand new supporters in just 2 weeks! Thank you so... http://bit.ly/nx9hw
about 23 hours ago from Facebook Many fans here in the shopping mall in Cebu - they're here to get CDs signed by Libera boys. http://bit.ly/vc2RH
2:11 AM Oct 27th from Facebook Many fans here in the shopping mall in Cebu - they're here to get CDs signed by Libera boys.
2:10 AM Oct 27th from TweetDeck Arrived safely in Cebu. Met with ceremonial prayer dance and flower necklaces.
12:06 AM Oct 27th from TweetDeck Nice relaxing day today after our concert yesterday in PICC. Next stop Cebu.... http://bit.ly/8snvG
6:27 AM Oct 26th from Facebook
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
Program Guide Manila Concert
1. Adoramus (none)
2. Gloria (none)
3. Far Away - miniBen with Kavana doing the high chorus part
4. Stay with me - Daniel as main solo and Matthew doing the high parts
5. Sancte - Stefan --> I'm not very sure with this because I didn't see who sang the first 'creator'. I was watching Liam and I don't think his lips were moving. The second one was sung by Stefan.
6. Secret - miniBen (the solo in the intro was replaced by the violin)
7. Salva me - Stefan
8. Sanctus - mostly a group effort with Kavana and Stefan doing the high parts, I think
9. Ave Maria - mostly group, but the two in the middle were Jakob and miniBen
10. Libera - one of my fave numbers, solo by Liam
Intermission
1. Sakura (none)
2. When a knight won his spurs (Stefan)
3. Hymn to beauty (none)
4. Prayer from Hansel & Gretel - Freddie with mini James
5. You were there - Josh with a variation in the last part of the chorus
6. Orinoco Flow (none)
7. How can I keep from singing - intro was done by a group, ending by Josh
8. Sacris Solemnis - mostly group, Stefan doing the high parts
9. Love & Mercy - Josh
10. I am the Day - Josh and Sam
Bayan Ko - in the middle, Ben sang the solo
2. Gloria (none)
3. Far Away - miniBen with Kavana doing the high chorus part
4. Stay with me - Daniel as main solo and Matthew doing the high parts
5. Sancte - Stefan --> I'm not very sure with this because I didn't see who sang the first 'creator'. I was watching Liam and I don't think his lips were moving. The second one was sung by Stefan.
6. Secret - miniBen (the solo in the intro was replaced by the violin)
7. Salva me - Stefan
8. Sanctus - mostly a group effort with Kavana and Stefan doing the high parts, I think
9. Ave Maria - mostly group, but the two in the middle were Jakob and miniBen
10. Libera - one of my fave numbers, solo by Liam
Intermission
1. Sakura (none)
2. When a knight won his spurs (Stefan)
3. Hymn to beauty (none)
4. Prayer from Hansel & Gretel - Freddie with mini James
5. You were there - Josh with a variation in the last part of the chorus
6. Orinoco Flow (none)
7. How can I keep from singing - intro was done by a group, ending by Josh
8. Sacris Solemnis - mostly group, Stefan doing the high parts
9. Love & Mercy - Josh
10. I am the Day - Josh and Sam
Bayan Ko - in the middle, Ben sang the solo
Twitter-October 25
Nice relaxing day today after our concert yesterday in PICC. Next stop Cebu.... http://bit.ly/8snvG
about 2 hours ago from Facebook
about 2 hours ago from Facebook
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Video Meet & Greet Manila
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqufOv2JsR8
In this video Tom's voice is deep when he says "Hello"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kxXHUqNY3fk
In this video Tom's voice is deep when he says "Hello"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kxXHUqNY3fk
Concert Review Manila
This posting came from a member of Angel Voices "cayleb101".
DO NOT READ IF YOU'RE GOING TO WATCH THE OCTOBER 28 CONCERT @ THE WATERFRONT HOTEL IN LAHUG, CEBU. THIS WRITE-UP CONTAINS SPOILERS!!!
Hey guys!
I just got home from the concert, and boy. Their performance was AMAZING. I did not expect that they'd sound the same just like on their CDs. They were so great!Oh and for the record, I am pleased to tell everyone that they don't use cue cards anymore when they do little intermissions between their songs. LOL!
Josh can still sing the high notes, but not as high as before. He reminded me of Ben Crawley. Ben was already 16, but he was still able to reach the high notes.Liam also sang the solo parts of "Libera" but I'm afraid, he's losing control when it comes to going from the high notes, down to the lowest note. I think
he'll be taking his "break" too sooner or later. All throughout the concert, I cannot help but think the same thing over and over again. "I wonder how Tom feels now that Ben and Josh are now singing his solo parts (Far Away & You were there)." As expected, Tom didn't sing any solos tonight. He was at the back row
with Jonathan Barrington and Sam Leggett. (Taking the places of Michael Horncastle, Callum Payne and Conor O'Donnell)The new boys were very exceptional. Henry Barrington, Kavana Crossley, Daniel
Fontannaz, Freddie Ingles, Stefan Leadbeater, Rynn Marks, James Mordaunt, Sammy Moriarty, Matthew Rangel-Alvares, Carlos Rodrigues, Ralph Skan, Alfie Smart and James Threadgill were all enthusiastic about what they were doing a while ago on stage. I find Freddie really adorable, apart from being the smallest person in the choir, the little guy has a sense of humor! Quoting him: "We will be singing our last song I am the day. After that we're going home!"Of course, after their last song, we had to ask them to sing an encore. No one in the concert hall expected the "surprise" encore they had in store for us.They sang a FILIPINO SONG, "Bayan Ko" or "My Country" in English. It is one of our famous patriotic songs which meant a lot to each and every Filipino. And hearing it from children, it was a sure way to melt anyone's heart.(If you're interested about the "Bayan Ko" song, please follow this link:
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_does_Bayan_Kong_Pilipinas_fight_for_or_message)These boys have certainly made our busy world stop for 2 wonderful hours. I am really grateful to have witnessed such a great event. I cannot thank these boys enough for making us Filipinos feel blessed and loved by God, despite the recent tragedies that we had to face. I can only pray and hope that they will not stop from sharing their wonderful gift of music, even after they "graduate" from Libera.With that being said, I should have sticked with my original plan: BRING A HANDKERCHIEF.
DO NOT READ IF YOU'RE GOING TO WATCH THE OCTOBER 28 CONCERT @ THE WATERFRONT HOTEL IN LAHUG, CEBU. THIS WRITE-UP CONTAINS SPOILERS!!!
Hey guys!
I just got home from the concert, and boy. Their performance was AMAZING. I did not expect that they'd sound the same just like on their CDs. They were so great!Oh and for the record, I am pleased to tell everyone that they don't use cue cards anymore when they do little intermissions between their songs. LOL!
Josh can still sing the high notes, but not as high as before. He reminded me of Ben Crawley. Ben was already 16, but he was still able to reach the high notes.Liam also sang the solo parts of "Libera" but I'm afraid, he's losing control when it comes to going from the high notes, down to the lowest note. I think
he'll be taking his "break" too sooner or later. All throughout the concert, I cannot help but think the same thing over and over again. "I wonder how Tom feels now that Ben and Josh are now singing his solo parts (Far Away & You were there)." As expected, Tom didn't sing any solos tonight. He was at the back row
with Jonathan Barrington and Sam Leggett. (Taking the places of Michael Horncastle, Callum Payne and Conor O'Donnell)The new boys were very exceptional. Henry Barrington, Kavana Crossley, Daniel
Fontannaz, Freddie Ingles, Stefan Leadbeater, Rynn Marks, James Mordaunt, Sammy Moriarty, Matthew Rangel-Alvares, Carlos Rodrigues, Ralph Skan, Alfie Smart and James Threadgill were all enthusiastic about what they were doing a while ago on stage. I find Freddie really adorable, apart from being the smallest person in the choir, the little guy has a sense of humor! Quoting him: "We will be singing our last song I am the day. After that we're going home!"Of course, after their last song, we had to ask them to sing an encore. No one in the concert hall expected the "surprise" encore they had in store for us.They sang a FILIPINO SONG, "Bayan Ko" or "My Country" in English. It is one of our famous patriotic songs which meant a lot to each and every Filipino. And hearing it from children, it was a sure way to melt anyone's heart.(If you're interested about the "Bayan Ko" song, please follow this link:
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_does_Bayan_Kong_Pilipinas_fight_for_or_message)These boys have certainly made our busy world stop for 2 wonderful hours. I am really grateful to have witnessed such a great event. I cannot thank these boys enough for making us Filipinos feel blessed and loved by God, despite the recent tragedies that we had to face. I can only pray and hope that they will not stop from sharing their wonderful gift of music, even after they "graduate" from Libera.With that being said, I should have sticked with my original plan: BRING A HANDKERCHIEF.
Facebook-October 24
Libera Getting ready for our first concert later today here in the 'Pines. We are loving the culture - though most of us will probably never master the famous Philippine bamboo dance.... Thankful that the latest typhoon veered away from this lovely country.
Twitter-October 25
Getting ready for our first concert later today here in the 'Pines. We are loving the culture - though most of... http://bit.ly/4aDoT7
about 9 hours ago from Facebook Newspaper piece from yesterday's press conference..... http://bit.ly/36tOYr
about 10 hours ago from TweetDeck Looking forward to concert at PICC tomorrow. Manila is wonderful so far!
9:00 AM Oct 24th from web Meeting and Greeting
about 9 hours ago from Facebook Newspaper piece from yesterday's press conference..... http://bit.ly/36tOYr
about 10 hours ago from TweetDeck Looking forward to concert at PICC tomorrow. Manila is wonderful so far!
9:00 AM Oct 24th from web Meeting and Greeting
Choir Member Of The Week-Freddie Ingles
Joined Choir: 2008
Birthdate: July 30, 2000
Age: 8
Information: Freddie was introduced to the audience by Liam Connery at Libera's concert at Torquay on his birthday July 30,2008. He is currently the youngest choir member. Freddie loves singing with the choir and in his free time he enjoys reading a good book.
Video Appearances:
2008
While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
Gaudete [2008]
Libera & Aled - Once In Royal David's City
Libera & Aled - O Come All Ye Faithful
Libera & Aled - Hark The Herald Angels Sing
2009
Songs of Praise Special
I Am The Day
Concert Appearances:
St. Peter's Cathredal, Belfast (August 3, 2009) Solo-Prayer
St. Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Edinburgh (August 11, 2009) Solo-Prayer
http://www.liberafans.org/
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/Angelvoices/
Libera St Marys Cathedral Edinburgh (Post Concert)
Picture Of The Day-Harrogate, UK June 30, 2007
Jonathan (partially hidden), Michael V, Tom, Joe, Ben, Zach.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Twitter-October 24
Looking forward to concert at PICC tomorrow. Manila is wonderful so far!
about 1 hour ago from web Meeting and Greeting @ The Podium in Manila. Thank you for such a warm reception!
about 9 hours ago from mobile web SOLD OUT: All 3500 tickets for our concert at PICC tomorrow are sold.
about 10 hours ago from TweetDeck We have arrived safely in Manila. Warm temperature and warmer reception.
about 18 hours ago from TweetDeck
about 1 hour ago from web Meeting and Greeting @ The Podium in Manila. Thank you for such a warm reception!
about 9 hours ago from mobile web SOLD OUT: All 3500 tickets for our concert at PICC tomorrow are sold.
about 10 hours ago from TweetDeck We have arrived safely in Manila. Warm temperature and warmer reception.
about 18 hours ago from TweetDeck
Friday, October 23, 2009
Twitter-October 22
Latest tropical storm seems to be keeping clear of Manila. Hoping it will miss Philippines altogether
7:05 AM Oct 22nd from TweetDeck
7:05 AM Oct 22nd from TweetDeck
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Twitter Message From Libera
Final preparations for our visit to the Philippines are almost complete :-) Long flights ahead :-(5:16 AM Oct 20th from web
Tickets for Manila concert nearly sold out, some still left at 3850, 1500, 800 and 500 pesos. Call 6388304 or 0918-9181367
Tickets for Manila concert nearly sold out, some still left at 3850, 1500, 800 and 500 pesos. Call 6388304 or 0918-9181367
Photo Of The Day-Performance at St. John's Church
Josh getting a pen to sign after concert 7/30/2008
Video Of The Day-Libera at Torquay (home video after concert)
Libera at Torquay (home video after concert)
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
Libera On Starweek
The Philippine Star's Starweek Sunday Magazine featured a full page article on Libera.
Philippine Star's
Philippine Star's
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Choir Member Of The Week-Jonathan Barrington
Joined Choir: 2005
Birthdate: January 31, 1995
Information:
Jon has been with the choir since 2005 and has appeared in several videos including the performance of Sanctus at St. Bartholomew's church and also appeared on the British television show When will I be famous. In Jonathan's free time he likes to listen to jazz music. His favorite jazz group is called The Proclaimers. He also enjoys being on his computer and dealing with multimedia programs. When he is not listening to music he enjoys playing badmiton, swimming and boat racing. When he is at school he has a lot of respect for his school principal. His favorite color is blue and his favorite food is barbecue.
Quote: "Iam good, very good at school except for geography" (Libera In their own words part 1)
Albums Sung On: Visions (2005) Angel Voices (2006) Libera In Concert (2007) New Dawn (2008)
Video Appearances:
2005
Visions Promo
We Are The Lost
Libera [2005]
When A Knight Won His Spurs [Ed Day 2005]
2006
Far Away [Libera's World]
Locus Iste [Jan 2006]
Locus Iste [Mar 2006]
Far Away
Introducing Libera [October 2006]
Sanctus IV [2006]
2007
When A Knight Won His Spurs [Ed Day 2007]
When Will I Be Famous - Sanctus 1
When Will I Be Famous - Sanctus 2
When Will I Be Famous [17/02/2007]
Lacrymosa
When Will I Be Famous [24/02/2007]
When Will I Be Famous - Salva Me
Salva Me [March 2007]
In Concert [St John's, March 2007]
Ave Maria [May 2007]
Silent Night [Leiden, Holland 2007]
2008
New Dawn Promo
Orinoco Flow [Last Choir Standing]
You Were There
While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
Gaudete [2008]
Libera & Aled - Once In Royal David's City
Libera & Aled - O Come All Ye Faithful
Libera & Aled - O Little Town Of Bethlehem
2009
Songs of Praise Special
I Am The Day
Refferances:
http://www.liberafans.org/
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/Angelvoices/
Polling Results For October #1
What are your most favorite Libera songs?
#1 Going Home (Josh, Ben, and Tom) 16
#2 You Were There (Tom) 14
#3 I Am The Day (Josh and Sam) 12
#4 Orinoco Flow 11
#5 Sancte (Liam) 10
#6 Sanctus (Ed) 9
#7 Love and Mercy (Tom & Josh) 9
#8 Stay With Me(Ed and Liam) + Do Not Stand on my Grave (Tom) 9
#9 Secret (Josh) 8
#10 Ave Maria (Tom) 5
#11 Gloria 5
#12 Libera (Sam) 4
#1 Going Home (Josh, Ben, and Tom) 16
#2 You Were There (Tom) 14
#3 I Am The Day (Josh and Sam) 12
#4 Orinoco Flow 11
#5 Sancte (Liam) 10
#6 Sanctus (Ed) 9
#7 Love and Mercy (Tom & Josh) 9
#8 Stay With Me(Ed and Liam) + Do Not Stand on my Grave (Tom) 9
#9 Secret (Josh) 8
#10 Ave Maria (Tom) 5
#11 Gloria 5
#12 Libera (Sam) 4
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Meet & Greet-Cebu
As soon as Libera fans post their pictures I will have a few up on this blog with credit to whom took the photos. For those who are lucky enough to be going remember the day BEFORE the concert in Cebu is the Meet & Greet session NOT the day of the concert!
Polling Results From September
Who is your favorite current member?
Jousha Madine (12)
Tom Cully (7)
Ben Philipp (6)
Liam Connery (5)
Ed Day (4)
Jonathan Barrington (3)
Sam Leggett (3)
Who is your favorite NEW member?
Steffan Leadbeater (10)
Kavana Crossley (5)
Flynn Marks (5)
Ralph Skan (5)
James Mordaunt (5)
Daniel Fontannaz (5)
Jousha Madine (12)
Tom Cully (7)
Ben Philipp (6)
Liam Connery (5)
Ed Day (4)
Jonathan Barrington (3)
Sam Leggett (3)
Who is your favorite NEW member?
Steffan Leadbeater (10)
Kavana Crossley (5)
Flynn Marks (5)
Ralph Skan (5)
James Mordaunt (5)
Daniel Fontannaz (5)
Latest New From Libera-Philippines Concerts
This was taken from Libera's Facebook home page in regards to their upcoming concerts.
We leave soon for our visit to the Philippines in celebration of RP-UK Friendship Week. We are looking forward to sharing our music and seeing the beautiful sights of Manila and Cebu. 9 hours ago
We have just heard that in the Philippines our latest CD - Eternal: The Best of Libera - is number 4 in the pop charts. And our DVD is number 5 in the overall DVD charts. Thank you to everyone who has bought them. October 13 at 2:01pm
What can we say - 5000 fans. Amazing. Thank you to everyone who has joined us here on Facebook in the last month. October 12 at 4:00pm
We leave soon for our visit to the Philippines in celebration of RP-UK Friendship Week. We are looking forward to sharing our music and seeing the beautiful sights of Manila and Cebu. 9 hours ago
We have just heard that in the Philippines our latest CD - Eternal: The Best of Libera - is number 4 in the pop charts. And our DVD is number 5 in the overall DVD charts. Thank you to everyone who has bought them. October 13 at 2:01pm
What can we say - 5000 fans. Amazing. Thank you to everyone who has joined us here on Facebook in the last month. October 12 at 4:00pm
Background On Song-Prayer
PRAYER
Hansel and Gretel are left alone in the dark and frightening forest, as night falls in
the famous opera. Before they go to sleep they sing this famous evening prayer.
Tom Cully and Ed Day sing the solo parts.
Hansel and Gretel are left alone in the dark and frightening forest, as night falls in
the famous opera. Before they go to sleep they sing this famous evening prayer.
Tom Cully and Ed Day sing the solo parts.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Picture Of The Day-Harrogate Concert - June 2007
Tom & JOsh getting ready to perform at the Harrogate Concert June 2007.
Background Of The Song-Far Away
This atmospheric song has been a hit in Japan where it is used as the theme
music to a TV drama series – adding to Libera’s fame in the Far East where extra
security is needed at the end of concerts to control the fans! The song, which
was written only a few months ago, begins intimately and builds to an exciting
cascading chorus, as all the harmony parts sing their tunes across each other.
music to a TV drama series – adding to Libera’s fame in the Far East where extra
security is needed at the end of concerts to control the fans! The song, which
was written only a few months ago, begins intimately and builds to an exciting
cascading chorus, as all the harmony parts sing their tunes across each other.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Monday, October 12, 2009
Music Background-Sanctus
Based on the enduring favorite, Pachelbel’s ‘Canon,’ ‘Sanctus’ has become one
of Libera’s theme tunes. With its stratospheric vocal lines, and rich harmonies, it
is ideally suited to the young voices. In common with several Libera songs, the
language is Latin, and the title means “Holy.’ The vocal range goes rather high.
of Libera’s theme tunes. With its stratospheric vocal lines, and rich harmonies, it
is ideally suited to the young voices. In common with several Libera songs, the
language is Latin, and the title means “Holy.’ The vocal range goes rather high.
Picture Of The Day-When Will I Be Famous
Victory!! The boys clearly ecstatic at Graham Norton's announcement
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Choir Member Of The Week-Sam Leggett
Sam Leggett
Joined Choir: 2004
Birthdate: October 12, 1994
Age: 14
Information:
Sam enjoys swimming and reading during his free time. His favorite colors are blue and green. At school his favorite subject is science and he really enjoys it. When it comes to food his favorite is roasted chicken. His friends have a nickname for Sam and it is Sleg. Why he got this nickname we do not know why.
Concert Appearance: St. Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Edinburgh (August 11, 2009) Solo-I am The Day along with Josh.
Album: Sanctus (Libera in concert) 2007
Video Apperances:
2004
Little Town Of Bethlehem [Aled With Libera]
Little Town Of Bethlehem [Aled With Libera]
2005
Visions Promo
Abide With Me [Auschwitz]
Be Still My Soul [Auschwitz]
We Are The Lost
Libera [2005]
When A Knight Won His Spurs [Ed Day 2005]
2006
Locus Iste [Jan 2006]
Locus Iste [Mar 2006]
Sempiterna
Far Away
Sanctus IV [2006]
Far Away [Classic FM]
Silent Night
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen [2006]
2007
When A Knight Won His Spurs [Ed Day 2007]
When Will I Be Famous - Sanctus 1
When Will I Be Famous - Sanctus 2
When Will I Be Famous [17/02/2007]
Lacrymosa
When Will I Be Famous [24/02/2007]
When Will I Be Famous - Salva Me
Salva Me [March 2007]
In Concert [St John's, March 2007]
Ave Maria [May 2007]
Silent Night [Leiden, Holland 2007]
Gaudete [2007]
O Come All Ye Faithful [2007]
2008
New Dawn Promo
Orinoco Flow [Last Choir Standing]
You Were There
While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
Libera & Aled - Once In Royal David's City
Libera & Aled - O Come All Ye Faithful
Libera & Aled - O Little Town Of Bethlehem
2009
Songs of Praise Special (Soloist)
I Am The Day
Sanctus
References:
www.liberafans.org
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/Angelvoices/
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Background Fact Sheet-Lacrymosa
LACRYMOSA
Sometimes Libera base their music on some well-known classical pieces.This
one comes from the ‘Carnival of the Animals’ by the composer Saints Saens.
Information from: Angelvoices
Sometimes Libera base their music on some well-known classical pieces.This
one comes from the ‘Carnival of the Animals’ by the composer Saints Saens.
Information from: Angelvoices
Friday, October 9, 2009
Japanese Love FM radio interview with Robert Prizeman in 2006
“How do you choose the boys to be in the choir”?
“Well we sort of have an audition, but of course at the age of seven they likely have not sung very much. In the UK there aren’t really many teachers that will be getting youngsters to sing before the age of seven. So when I meet them through a variety of advertising and contacts and things like that they will not practically be singers so we will ask them to sing a children’s song or a children’s carol. Then I will be seeing what the musical talent they have and what potential they might have. And then they will come along hopefully if their parents want to give it a go and they’ll have like a trial period so the audition although there is a moment where I will meet them and the auditions sort of carries on. The auditions also carries on a reverse, because the parents have to sort of audition us because it is a lot of time and sometimes it might be that they want their children to be not that involved so the parents get a chance to sort of test it out as well. But most of them stay with us actually we seem to back the right horses by and large they sort of gradually get involved more and more and then it sort of becomes a way of life really although it is a hobby of course. They are at different schools and they don’t do this because they have too it’s done in their spare time. So this makes it much easier because we don’t have to compulsive them to do things that they all want to do”.
Japanese Love FM radio interview with Robert Prizeman in 2006
“Well we sort of have an audition, but of course at the age of seven they likely have not sung very much. In the UK there aren’t really many teachers that will be getting youngsters to sing before the age of seven. So when I meet them through a variety of advertising and contacts and things like that they will not practically be singers so we will ask them to sing a children’s song or a children’s carol. Then I will be seeing what the musical talent they have and what potential they might have. And then they will come along hopefully if their parents want to give it a go and they’ll have like a trial period so the audition although there is a moment where I will meet them and the auditions sort of carries on. The auditions also carries on a reverse, because the parents have to sort of audition us because it is a lot of time and sometimes it might be that they want their children to be not that involved so the parents get a chance to sort of test it out as well. But most of them stay with us actually we seem to back the right horses by and large they sort of gradually get involved more and more and then it sort of becomes a way of life really although it is a hobby of course. They are at different schools and they don’t do this because they have too it’s done in their spare time. So this makes it much easier because we don’t have to compulsive them to do things that they all want to do”.
Japanese Love FM radio interview with Robert Prizeman in 2006
Libera Soundtrack for Movie-Nobody to Watch Over Me
It has come to my attention from a forum that the Japaneese film "Nobody to Watch Over Me" has been selected to represent Japan to compete in the International film category for the 2010 Oscar this coming Spring. That means that if the movie is selected for the final we might see Libera going there to recieve the award. Here is that trailer from the movie and Libera singing near the end of the trailer.
Nobody to Watch Over Me
Nobody to Watch Over Me
Picture Of The Day-Edinburgh Concert 2009
Since there was no "Meet & Greet" session after the concert the boys stayed around for photo. This photo was taken by "Weeksy" a member of Libera Fan website.
Happy Birthday To You-Michael Vereycken
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
Michael Vereycken
October 9, 1995
Age:14
When Michael grows up he wants to be a car designer.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Has the boys left Libera?
This seems to be an on going topic in different forums on the web. The latest question is about Oliver Cole, Tom Cole, Michael V., and Zack Lockett leaving Libera. It is the policy of Libera to not metion who has left the choir. In most cases its up to the parents of the boys if they leave the choir. Sometimes the boys do not travel to concerts and others it could simply to much schoolwork such as the case with Tom Cully not going to Southern California this past Spring.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Monday, October 5, 2009
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Choir Member Of The Week-James Mordaunt
Joined the Choir: 2008
Birthdate: December 1998
Age: 10
Information: Besides singing in the choir James likes to go swimming, riding his bicycle and playing computer games. Sometimes he likes to go by Mini James as a nickname with his Libera friends.
Video Appearances:
2008
While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
Gaudete [2008]
Libera & Aled - Once In Royal David's City
Libera & Aled - O Come All Ye Faithful
2009
Songs of Praise Special
I Am The Day
Concert Appearances:
St, Peter's Cathredal, Belfast (August 3, 2009) Solo- Prayer
St. Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Edinburgh (August 11, 2009) Solo-Prayer
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Friday, October 2, 2009
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Birthday Boys For October 2009
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!
Michael Vereycken
October 9th
Age:14
Sam Leggett
October 12th
Age: 15
Jousha Madine
October 26th
Age: 15
New Japanese Panasonic ad-"Far Away"
New Japanese Panasonic ad
Snippets of original flavor "Far Away" can be heard in a new Japanese Panasonic ad, featuring footage from James Cameron's new film, "Avatar."Japanese commercial. Could this mean Libera's song "Far Away" might be in the new movie coming out soon?
Snippets of original flavor "Far Away" can be heard in a new Japanese Panasonic ad, featuring footage from James Cameron's new film, "Avatar."Japanese commercial. Could this mean Libera's song "Far Away" might be in the new movie coming out soon?
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