Libera (choir)

Libera
Libera in concert, July 2015
Background information
Also known asAngel Voices
OriginLondon, England
GenresClassical crossover
Years active1995–present
LabelsWarner Classics, EMI Classics, IHM/Libera Music
Websitelibera.org.uk

Libera is an all-boy English vocal group founded by the late Robert Prizeman.[1] Libera performs concerts in many countries, including the UK, the US and throughout Asia, and often makes recordings for their own album releases and other projects.

Many members also sing in the parish choir of St. Philip's, Norbury, in South London.[2] According to a 2009 Songs of Praise TV special, the group usually consists of approximately 40 members between the ages of seven and 16, including new members who are not yet ready to fully participate in albums or tours.[3] The group recruits from a variety of backgrounds in the London area,[1] and does not require its members to belong to any specific denomination.[2]

In addition to recording albums, touring and making TV appearances as Libera, the group sings on a weekly basis as part of the full choir of men and boys at parish choral services.[2] Libera is run as a not-for-profit registered UK charity,[1] "providing the opportunity for suitable boys to train as vocalists from any background". Members do not get paid for their work within Libera, but their expenses are covered when touring.[4]

The group's name comes from its signature song, "Libera", which is based on the "Libera Me" portion of the Requiem Mass.[which?] Libera is the Latin singular imperative of liberare, meaning "to free".

  1. ^ a b c Cite error: The named reference PeaceReview was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ a b c Harris, Bryan (May 2006). "St. Philips, Norbury ... and the phenomenon that is Libera" (PDF). southwark.anglican.org/. Archived from the original (PDF) on 7 June 2011. Retrieved 16 July 2012.
  3. ^ "Libera". Songs of Praise. 25 January 2009. BBC One.
  4. ^ "Aleteia--The boys of Libera sing with angelic voices". 3 July 2017.