Can I just say that I love you guys?? Your blend is AMAZING, and your voices make me melt into a puddle of happiness and joy. I loved seeing you guys perform at International over the summer. I especially love the arrangement of Sure on This Shining Night that you do. <3 <3
@leetfeetman We fluctuate year to year because guys are in school, move away, get busy or have work/life sadly take them away from us. What you see in this video was the amount of guys who were both singing with us regularly AND able to afford the trip to UK to compete in Choir of the World. US based contests are more "local" for us so we swell to approximately 65 at those competitions.
Why didn't anyone from the Philippines join in 2009? Weird. I'm used to hear like 2 choirs from Phil joining every year. Anyway in 2010 the UST singers got the title and the DLSU placed Second in the Chamber category both from Ph.
Whatever technique the tenors use in Lux Aurumque to sustain that long note works wonders. Each of these songs is truly a treat to listen to. This is what real choral singing is about.
I had the honor of singing with Mr. Miller a couple of times in the chorus he's currently conducting. he is absolutely brilliant. by far the best conductor I've ever had the privilege to sing with
This choir is absolutely breathtaking. The fact that a whole choir can be so well in tune, so perfect on so many levels, is absolutely crazy! I would love to sing in this choir! Amazing. Well deserved Choir of the World victory. Wow.
DON'T READ THIS CAUSE IT ACTUALLY WORKS.YOU WILL GET KISSED ON THE NEAREST POSSIBLE FRIDAY BY THE LOVE OF YOUR LIFE. TOMORROW WILL BE THE BEST DAY OF YOUR LIFE HOWEVER IF YOU DO NOT POST THIS COMMENT TO AT LEAST 3 VIDEOS YOU WILL DIE WITHIN 2 DAYS. NO UV STARTED READING THIS SO DUNT STOP.THIS IS SCARY.PUT THIS ON AT LEAST 5 VIDEOS IN 143 MINUTES. WHEN YOUR DONE PRESS F6 AND YOUR LOVERS NAME WILL APPEAR ON THE SCREEN IN BIG LETTERS.THIS IS SO SCARY CAUSE IT ACTUALLYWORK
very nicely done! everybody seems to like being a critic on YouTube without fully appreciating the full gallery and diversity of sound and talent among choirs here. you have an exceptional group, and don't let anybody tell you otherwise.
You guys blend well....really well. Nice clean sound. That said your diction is horrible and your tone sounds juvenile. The conductor's style was hokey to say the least...this group is a PRIME example of why I really do not like American choirs. It sounds like you learn show tunes in voice lessons, rather than art song and oratorio/ opera.
@Wally773MTG That sounds to me like a gross generalization of American choirs. Choirs are allowed to choose the style they sing in, and many American choirs choose to sing in a Bel Canto, or Operatic fashion. We do not go that route so we may focus on a stronger ensemble. Perhaps that is why you think our tone is "juvenile," because it does not have that extra weight. By the way, what is so terrible about our diction? I'm sorry you found my conducting to be hokey.
@jmiller823 Your vowels are impure. I can't stand dip-thongs. Its a very American way of singing/ diction problem...hence my gross generalization. I know you can sing in whatever style you want, I just don't agree with the style you (and so many other choirs) subscribe to. Its the "glee subculture" to coin a term. Don't get me wrong, I think you have a good ensemble here. It seems like everyone involved is motivated and has a lot of fun. I'm just not a fan of the whole show choir movement.
@Wally773MTG Ok, so some of the vowels could have been more pure, but are you suggesting that the two songs in English, a language that contains diphthongs, should not contain diphthongs? It also should be pointed out that we are part of an organization that has been performing this way for decades, so this "glee subculture" term you have codified does not apply. In fact, this performance took place before "Glee" became popular. Despite the constructive criticism, thanks for the compliment.
@jmiller823 I full well understand what SPEBSQSA is and how long its been around....I am a singer after all.
Every language has diphthongs. You sing IPA with NO diphthongs because when you change formants (ie going from one vowel to another) you alter pitch. Listen to The Sixteen, The Tallis Scholars, The Monteverdi Choir, The Kings Singers, etc (all ENGLISH speaking choirs ) and tell me if you hear any diphthongs on English pieces.
@TenorJOE No, just a professional cathedral choir in downtown Chicago. Next season I will be auditioning for the Chicago Symphony Chorus, you know, a grammy winning choir. And really, what are you talking about? This is a show choir.
@Wally773MTG Depends on how you define show choir. "A show choir (originally called 'swing choir') is a group of people who combine choral singing with dance movements"...and if you consider any of what we do in all 3 of those songs (including Daniel) dancing, well then we'll just have to agree to disagree.
@drayktwo I was referring to MANY other videos of you guys when I called you a show choir, I try not to bass opinions off of one video. Who is icyveins and why is he/ she pertinent to what I was saying? And was it absolutely necessary for me to leave my opinion? Of course not it wasn't, but it is my right to say what I am thinking and I decided to. If you can't live with the fact that one person doesn't like what you do than you are in the wrong business my friend...
@Wally773MTG You just tried to make a point at me that I was fervently making directly at you. You clearly disagree with the style, but that doesn't mean what we do is "incorrect" in any way, shape, or form. You're the minority in fact. Icyveins was relevant because you started this whole thing because of Jmiller correcting something he felt needed a fix. It's within Jmiller's right to say what he thinks too, right (especially as our director)? Redundancy and contradiction bug me.
@drayktwo It means that it is in incorrect in my way shape and form...and a few others' also (typically, the ones who have put enough time and effort in to get payed for what they do). I started this whole thing with an opinion comment I left. It was in no way related to whatever icyveins said and I am still at a loss as to why that got brought up. I never disputed Jmillers right to respond, in fact I had fun going back and forth with him... Incompetence bugs me...
@Wally773MTG Then thank god music is not defined in "your way", we wouldn't love it for as open to all styles that it is if that were the case. You don't think the chorus finances or makes money? How does any group do anything without money? The point is, opinions are like...well you know. Everybody has 'em. All I'm saying is yours isn't a popular one. Go ahead and disagree with me on a video where we won Choir of the World against many other groups probably adhering to "your way".
@Wally773MTG What we're really arguing is the negative connotation you asserted towards our chosen "style", when it is just that, a style. If our style was any less "respectable" than any other style then maybe we shouldn't have won choir of the world on the accord of a highly qualified and choral experienced panel of judges. Just as you felt it was unnecessary to correct icyveins, maybe it's also unnecessary to voice your opinion as a general consensus, because the odds are not in your favor.
@Wally773MTG You mean actually pronouncing words so people can understand them? D: I never would have guessed that to be bad singing habit. You're obviously a pompous singer taught by an equally fat-headed italian/english/german conductor. Um, how many european choirs have ever won a world class title? 31 to be exact since 1973, whereas 217 choirs from America and other countries have won world-class titles. Good technique =/= favored style, sorry. Jmiller keep doing what you're doing.
@Icyveins906 Funny, I never heard of this "world class title" before I saw this video. Go see how many american choirs were on gramophone's latest 20 best choirs list. Even that list is a bit lacking. I'm an american, taught by americans, btw. And I sing with the CSC, the current grammy holding choir. Would a grammy fall under the category of a world class title?
"Good technique =/= favored style" ...wow. DUH? And thanks for making a great case for Rebecca Black.
@Wally773MTG Since when is rebecca black popular? :P not even in high schools is she really that favored, she's just funny as entertainment after her "friday" video. Also, Chanticleer, MtSac, WESTMINSTER (from california) and westminster university chamber singers have been on that list within the last four years. Also, you are talking to the third seat tewnor I of ACDA Eastern Latino Repertoire Honor Choir. Open to 11-12, collegiates, and adults. You ARE a pompous SOB who I could easily whip.
Also, everyone with an ounce of political knowledge knows the grammy is still a popularity award more than an award of skill. They just got tired of giving chanticleer one after their fourth (or was it fifth?) one. Seriously, crawl back to real life my friend and realize their are skills within styles, and musicianship is not defined as any one thing, ever.
@Wally773MTG This is the first men choir arrangment of Lux Arumque to bring me to tears, and I have sang this before. This music is good, if you don't like it, that's perfectly fine, but please, don't bring them down because I enjoy it and at least 322 other people like it and the audience loved it. They are great.
Your singing is fantastic!!!!!!!!!!! My only issue is the way each person moves their arm s when they sing. Maybe I am a traditionalist. I find it offputting to see people in a choir moving around. I like the idea of a choir being and looking like one voice. Great work though.
You guys are just amazing, not only you have gorgeous voices (love the basses!), I just adore the passion each one of you sings with and the love and great enthusiasm that your choir director leads you. This makes you SO DIFFERENT from any other choir. This makes you so unique.
Quite nice! I believe, however a group of this size and skill should be able to function without a conductor. Not to diminish the role of the man or anything!
One question/complaint... Why do so many members have elevated larynxes? Is it a style thing?
i love the comment " i like the part between 0.00 and 10.53" it beats all those comments about the perpetual 5ths and the major diminished dohickys i love the quality of this live performance its great!!!!
mrgray4 I have since spoken to the director and found out that they are not that way.. . What I was speaking of is the driving force behind barbershopping. Earlier know as SPEBSQSA which stood for society for the preservation encouragement of barber shop singing in america. Most BBShop choruses allow any and all to join their ranks, but then hold "try outs" if people want to compete or perform in the shows. This allows for the men that cannot sing so well, but enjoy it to be part of the group.
All of those overtones are godly, even in Lux you guys managed to place one. For those of the classical singing style, this is what barbershop training does. You can learn dominant seventh chords in jazz, but this genre is epitmoe of mastery when it comes to the major triad. This can help any song: learning to balance and tune chords to the point where soundwaves overlap and cause a ringing buzz to occur. They even pulled it off on a minor chord. You guys are just incredible.
When's the next time Westminster can compete in this? You guys will win for sure. Also, who arranged Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel? I really want to put in into SATB to get my choir director to see a GOOD arrangement of this song. She doesn't know the difference between gospel and Christian (in this case Jewish technically) spirituals, and frankly can't put the oomph in either. If anyone is a student of Hilary Colton, you know what I mean.
barbershop chorus is a different category in itself with all males singing the satb parts as compared to a mixed male-female choir where the males do only tb while the females the sa part.
@sibuyasilikamatis Barbershop music barely puts you into the upper alto ranges most of the time, and even then, it's mostly in the contest (barbershop harmony international convention) level arrangements that you get that high. As a countertenor and bbs singer, I can tell you it's nowhere close 80% of the time. I think the highest bbs note I sang was a C# which occurred once in the song for 1/8th beat. Countertenor was probably the F# on the top of the Treble Cleff held for 8 beats.
WOW! Goosebumps all over! Would love to see them compete with all the other Choir of the WOrld WInners Like UST SIngers, and the 2 - time Grand Prix Winner Philippine Madrigal SIngers. That would be awesome to watch!
Im from Neyyoor a small village in southern end of India... Saw this video.... Really a world class performance..... Harmony and expression are superb... Hats off to the choir.... Wish u All the Best....
Having raved about you several times - and rightly so - I would like to make one constructive criticism: if your boys were taught how to support the voice on the diaphragm, their forte and fortissimo sound could be as beautiful as the pianissimo. To a classically trained musician it sounds rough. I also wonder if they end performances with sore throats.
@msowinski64 Absolutely!!! When i was in high school, we played Eric's piece called October at state band. It made a lot of the people in the audience cry. Such an amazing artist of music.
You will have to forgive me on this one, you guys sound wonderful, but I do not believe that any chorus that restricts its membership by age or any other factor should be able to compete in the standard district competitions. Let us not forget what Barbershopping is all about and why we love it so much. I think it is outstanding, the achievements you guys have made, just don't think it fits the SPEBSQA image.
You will have to forgive me on this one, you guys sound wonderful, but I do not believe that any chorus that restricts its membership by age or any other factor should be able to compete in the standard district competitions. Let us not forget what Barbershopping is all about and why we love it so much. I think it is outstanding, the achievements you guys have made, just don't think it fits the SPEBSQA image.
@KiltedNerd What makes you think that membership in this chorus is restricted by age or any other factor? I do believe that for like minded musicians, a chorus that restricts membership based on skill level is very appropriate. It allows for a group in which all who are able to participate, possess the same mind set and ability to create works of art like those evidenced in this video.
I firmly believe that one of the reasons you are winning the barbershop international competition each time is because your chorus does not sing an entire diet of barbershop music. You sing fine choral music with a variety of harmonic styles (including what is almost tone clusters). The Vocal Majority has been the same way, but I don't think they ever did anything as intense as the Lux Aurumque. Bravo!
The lead soloist reminds a lot of Matthew Ward from 2nd chapter of Acts. Awesome voice. By far my favorite chorus. In fact Westminster is the only chorus cd I own.
This is how a chorus is supposed to sound. The basses add depth, the tenors are bright and pleasant. Everyone gives 100% to the sound quality, and every piece is studied to the point that they comprehend every aspect of the song. Bravo! You deserve the title Choir Of The World! You guys are my favourite men's chorus. Thank you for posting the videos. I love your sound!
Odd, my chamber choir in high school did both Lux Aurumque and Didn't My Lord this same year. Obviously we weren't near as good as this. It's odd that we happened to do it the same year. That is, unless our director decided to do what they did on purpose.
Also, kudos to you guys on the barbershop set and your 2007 performance of strike up the band. That song sounds so fun. Is there sheet music available for the arranement you guys did?
To any and all men out there who love to sing. Barbershop training on any level will benefit your abilities forever. This is where you learn to belt, even as basses. Such as on the LI-ON'S DEN at the beginning. There is also no better place to learn how to hear certain harmonies from major and minor to diminished, dominant, and augmented. No matter what your choir teachers say, tall vowels are only good for long, slow, foggy sounds, otherwise, it's the megaphone shapeset, WIDE, NO EXCEPTIONS!
@jmiller823 Ok, I went overboard, but you can even see it in this vid. The rest of what I said beyond vowel shape was correct though, about barbershop teaching something to anyone be it expression, energy, vocal quality, tonal synergy, showmanship, or blending. How I wish every choir in the world would perform instead of just sing. We put on shows, not just vocal treats. A concert of six choirs gets boring if all you hear and see is mouths moving. Expression is just as important as note accuracy
@amonjojo Westminster Chorus is not in affiliation with Westminster Choir College. We are based out of Southern California. It is a strange coincidence that Joe Miller is with Westminster Choir College on the east coast and that Justin Miller is in CA with Westminster Chorus.
@jmiller823 Totally didn't mean to offend you. It's just that sometimes it's polite to let people continue to be ignorant instead of correcting them in front of everyone just for the sake of being correct.
Incredible performance guys. Easily the best performance of Lux Aurumque I've ever seen/heard. It's great to see a barbershop chorus with great classical chops too. Just curious, what should I expect/prepare for an audition? I plan on being out in California within the next few years and would love to become a part of your amazing chorus.
Are you guys based out of Westminster University in PA, the one in England? Or are you guys a general choir based elsewhere? Amaqzing performance btw.
I'm sure i've already posted on this video... But this is the most amazing thing I think I've ever heard. You guys should do Sleep, followed by Water Night, then Leonardo Dreams of His Flying Machine. In that order. Thanks! :)
ach i love their facial expressions and movements... it truly demonstrates how connected they are to the spirit of the music, to each other and to their own spirit.
this makes my heart melt.
pets135 1 month ago in playlist Favorite videos
Holy crap that soloist was awesome! I'd go gay for him just because he sings so pretty ;P
mycatalyst23 1 month ago
You guys were going sharp on the last song and sung high D instead of C# on the last note!
Amazing.
JY0502 2 months ago
@JY0502 That's a C#, buddy. Do you have a piano with you?
psycholian 1 day ago
these guys gave me goosebumps!
beagles73 2 months ago
Can I just say that I love you guys?? Your blend is AMAZING, and your voices make me melt into a puddle of happiness and joy. I loved seeing you guys perform at International over the summer. I especially love the arrangement of Sure on This Shining Night that you do. <3 <3
MichaelaMarie2012 2 months ago
3 people don't know true talent when they see it, and hear it
tabletop45 4 months ago
did you guys grow in number since 2009? or is there a limit on how many members you can bring in to sing?
leetfeetman 4 months ago
@leetfeetman We fluctuate year to year because guys are in school, move away, get busy or have work/life sadly take them away from us. What you see in this video was the amount of guys who were both singing with us regularly AND able to afford the trip to UK to compete in Choir of the World. US based contests are more "local" for us so we swell to approximately 65 at those competitions.
MrRakitaVoCal 4 months ago
@MrRakitaVoCal oh okay that explains alot :3 thank you
leetfeetman 4 months ago
That Justin Miller is the business
OCTenor2 5 months ago 7
@OCTenor2 I would definitely agree with that remark Shawn.
trumpetguy19 4 months ago
Comment removed
iwanabana 5 months ago
Why are there 3 dislikes? Who are the choir-haters and gay bashers really? You three wouldn't know good music if it bit your face off.
Icyveins906 5 months ago
Anyone know where I can find this arrangement of Lux Aurumque?
Sylvanas590 5 months ago
STOP AT 4:33! HAPPY FACE!
franciscomercado130 6 months ago
@franciscomercado130 That's because it's a 9th my friend
kedarshashi 5 months ago
@kedarshashi It's still funny.
franciscomercado130 5 months ago
Beautiful sound all around! The high amount of cute guys (especially in the bass section!) also get my thumbs up :)
samiam15141 6 months ago
this choir just got lucky no philippine choir joined in 2009. hahaha
TheMav2020 7 months ago
@TheMav2020
Why didn't anyone from the Philippines join in 2009? Weird. I'm used to hear like 2 choirs from Phil joining every year. Anyway in 2010 the UST singers got the title and the DLSU placed Second in the Chamber category both from Ph.
But I admit, the WC sounds good.
ranhony 7 months ago
@boogermouth24 who cares?
TheMav2020 7 months ago
Very rich/full sound w/o volume and very intense focus to balance is very noticable. Wonderful presentation.
charlotteguy225 8 months ago in playlist Barbershop
I wish I was a part of a group like this. I'm a bass and this music is right up my alley.
charlotteguy225 8 months ago
@charlotteguy225 Check out to see if there are any barbershop choruses in your area. Most of them do music like this!
applesauc3 8 months ago
You guys are brilliant! I hope someday I can sing in a choir that's anything at all like yours!
Canadianspunge 8 months ago
Whatever technique the tenors use in Lux Aurumque to sustain that long note works wonders. Each of these songs is truly a treat to listen to. This is what real choral singing is about.
Sylvanas590 9 months ago
@Sylvanas590 Probably stagger breathing.
belmontprince 5 months ago
I had the honor of singing with Mr. Miller a couple of times in the chorus he's currently conducting. he is absolutely brilliant. by far the best conductor I've ever had the privilege to sing with
danwright32 9 months ago
This choir is absolutely breathtaking. The fact that a whole choir can be so well in tune, so perfect on so many levels, is absolutely crazy! I would love to sing in this choir! Amazing. Well deserved Choir of the World victory. Wow.
EragonMK 9 months ago
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DON'T READ THIS CAUSE IT ACTUALLY WORKS.YOU WILL GET KISSED ON THE NEAREST POSSIBLE FRIDAY BY THE LOVE OF YOUR LIFE. TOMORROW WILL BE THE BEST DAY OF YOUR LIFE HOWEVER IF YOU DO NOT POST THIS COMMENT TO AT LEAST 3 VIDEOS YOU WILL DIE WITHIN 2 DAYS. NO UV STARTED READING THIS SO DUNT STOP.THIS IS SCARY.PUT THIS ON AT LEAST 5 VIDEOS IN 143 MINUTES. WHEN YOUR DONE PRESS F6 AND YOUR LOVERS NAME WILL APPEAR ON THE SCREEN IN BIG LETTERS.THIS IS SO SCARY CAUSE IT ACTUALLYWORK
DanielleDesireeBrya1 9 months ago
i love the sound i just feel like looking at them makes me feel like they are trying to get get me into a van or something
xavier041 9 months ago
very nicely done! everybody seems to like being a critic on YouTube without fully appreciating the full gallery and diversity of sound and talent among choirs here. you have an exceptional group, and don't let anybody tell you otherwise.
homeydoc 9 months ago
You guys blend well....really well. Nice clean sound. That said your diction is horrible and your tone sounds juvenile. The conductor's style was hokey to say the least...this group is a PRIME example of why I really do not like American choirs. It sounds like you learn show tunes in voice lessons, rather than art song and oratorio/ opera.
Wally773MTG 9 months ago
Comment removed
jmiller823 9 months ago
@Wally773MTG That sounds to me like a gross generalization of American choirs. Choirs are allowed to choose the style they sing in, and many American choirs choose to sing in a Bel Canto, or Operatic fashion. We do not go that route so we may focus on a stronger ensemble. Perhaps that is why you think our tone is "juvenile," because it does not have that extra weight. By the way, what is so terrible about our diction? I'm sorry you found my conducting to be hokey.
jmiller823 9 months ago
@jmiller823 Your vowels are impure. I can't stand dip-thongs. Its a very American way of singing/ diction problem...hence my gross generalization. I know you can sing in whatever style you want, I just don't agree with the style you (and so many other choirs) subscribe to. Its the "glee subculture" to coin a term. Don't get me wrong, I think you have a good ensemble here. It seems like everyone involved is motivated and has a lot of fun. I'm just not a fan of the whole show choir movement.
Wally773MTG 9 months ago
@Wally773MTG Ok, so some of the vowels could have been more pure, but are you suggesting that the two songs in English, a language that contains diphthongs, should not contain diphthongs? It also should be pointed out that we are part of an organization that has been performing this way for decades, so this "glee subculture" term you have codified does not apply. In fact, this performance took place before "Glee" became popular. Despite the constructive criticism, thanks for the compliment.
jmiller823 9 months ago 2
@jmiller823 I full well understand what SPEBSQSA is and how long its been around....I am a singer after all.
Every language has diphthongs. You sing IPA with NO diphthongs because when you change formants (ie going from one vowel to another) you alter pitch. Listen to The Sixteen, The Tallis Scholars, The Monteverdi Choir, The Kings Singers, etc (all ENGLISH speaking choirs ) and tell me if you hear any diphthongs on English pieces.
Wally773MTG 9 months ago
@Wally773MTG Just listened to the King Singers singing Danny Boy. Tons of Diphthongs.
jmiller823 9 months ago 3
@jmiller823 A) point them out B) tally them against your own choir and see where you stand
Just listened to Danny Boy twice through, "tons" is a very liberal estimation.
Wally773MTG 9 months ago
@Wally773MTG technically, its not a show choir, it the choir of the world. were you ever in a choir of the world??
TenorJOE 9 months ago 2
@TenorJOE No, just a professional cathedral choir in downtown Chicago. Next season I will be auditioning for the Chicago Symphony Chorus, you know, a grammy winning choir. And really, what are you talking about? This is a show choir.
Wally773MTG 9 months ago
@Wally773MTG Depends on how you define show choir. "A show choir (originally called 'swing choir') is a group of people who combine choral singing with dance movements"...and if you consider any of what we do in all 3 of those songs (including Daniel) dancing, well then we'll just have to agree to disagree.
drayktwo 9 months ago 2
@drayktwo I was referring to MANY other videos of you guys when I called you a show choir, I try not to bass opinions off of one video. Who is icyveins and why is he/ she pertinent to what I was saying? And was it absolutely necessary for me to leave my opinion? Of course not it wasn't, but it is my right to say what I am thinking and I decided to. If you can't live with the fact that one person doesn't like what you do than you are in the wrong business my friend...
Wally773MTG 9 months ago
@Wally773MTG You just tried to make a point at me that I was fervently making directly at you. You clearly disagree with the style, but that doesn't mean what we do is "incorrect" in any way, shape, or form. You're the minority in fact. Icyveins was relevant because you started this whole thing because of Jmiller correcting something he felt needed a fix. It's within Jmiller's right to say what he thinks too, right (especially as our director)? Redundancy and contradiction bug me.
drayktwo 9 months ago 2
@drayktwo It means that it is in incorrect in my way shape and form...and a few others' also (typically, the ones who have put enough time and effort in to get payed for what they do). I started this whole thing with an opinion comment I left. It was in no way related to whatever icyveins said and I am still at a loss as to why that got brought up. I never disputed Jmillers right to respond, in fact I had fun going back and forth with him... Incompetence bugs me...
Wally773MTG 9 months ago
@Wally773MTG Then thank god music is not defined in "your way", we wouldn't love it for as open to all styles that it is if that were the case. You don't think the chorus finances or makes money? How does any group do anything without money? The point is, opinions are like...well you know. Everybody has 'em. All I'm saying is yours isn't a popular one. Go ahead and disagree with me on a video where we won Choir of the World against many other groups probably adhering to "your way".
drayktwo 9 months ago 9
@drayktwo for the record, I did in fact "thumbs up" this video because, AS I SAID TWICE, I think this is a good ensemble with a very good blend...
Wally773MTG 9 months ago
@Wally773MTG What we're really arguing is the negative connotation you asserted towards our chosen "style", when it is just that, a style. If our style was any less "respectable" than any other style then maybe we shouldn't have won choir of the world on the accord of a highly qualified and choral experienced panel of judges. Just as you felt it was unnecessary to correct icyveins, maybe it's also unnecessary to voice your opinion as a general consensus, because the odds are not in your favor.
drayktwo 9 months ago
@Wally773MTG hmmm... it sounds like you genuinely enjoy the smell of your own farts.
TenorJOE 3 months ago 2
@Wally773MTG It's spelled "diphthong," and pronounced "diffthong."
Sweet diction, dude.
Koaf 5 months ago
@Wally773MTG You mean actually pronouncing words so people can understand them? D: I never would have guessed that to be bad singing habit. You're obviously a pompous singer taught by an equally fat-headed italian/english/german conductor. Um, how many european choirs have ever won a world class title? 31 to be exact since 1973, whereas 217 choirs from America and other countries have won world-class titles. Good technique =/= favored style, sorry. Jmiller keep doing what you're doing.
Icyveins906 3 months ago
@Icyveins906 Funny, I never heard of this "world class title" before I saw this video. Go see how many american choirs were on gramophone's latest 20 best choirs list. Even that list is a bit lacking. I'm an american, taught by americans, btw. And I sing with the CSC, the current grammy holding choir. Would a grammy fall under the category of a world class title?
"Good technique =/= favored style" ...wow. DUH? And thanks for making a great case for Rebecca Black.
Wally773MTG 3 months ago
@Wally773MTG Since when is rebecca black popular? :P not even in high schools is she really that favored, she's just funny as entertainment after her "friday" video. Also, Chanticleer, MtSac, WESTMINSTER (from california) and westminster university chamber singers have been on that list within the last four years. Also, you are talking to the third seat tewnor I of ACDA Eastern Latino Repertoire Honor Choir. Open to 11-12, collegiates, and adults. You ARE a pompous SOB who I could easily whip.
Icyveins906 3 months ago
Also, everyone with an ounce of political knowledge knows the grammy is still a popularity award more than an award of skill. They just got tired of giving chanticleer one after their fourth (or was it fifth?) one. Seriously, crawl back to real life my friend and realize their are skills within styles, and musicianship is not defined as any one thing, ever.
Icyveins906 3 months ago
@Wally773MTG This is the first men choir arrangment of Lux Arumque to bring me to tears, and I have sang this before. This music is good, if you don't like it, that's perfectly fine, but please, don't bring them down because I enjoy it and at least 322 other people like it and the audience loved it. They are great.
JaredTVW 3 months ago
@Icyveins906 You say I'm pompous? I say you are lazy, lacking dedication, lacking talent, and far to ready to make excuses for poor musicianship.
Wally773MTG 3 months ago
And dipphthongs exist in every languag\e, get over it.
Icyveins906 3 months ago
Your singing is fantastic!!!!!!!!!!! My only issue is the way each person moves their arm s when they sing. Maybe I am a traditionalist. I find it offputting to see people in a choir moving around. I like the idea of a choir being and looking like one voice. Great work though.
annier1000 10 months ago
@annier1000 but a choir is anywhere between 4 and 8 voices (typically)....
Wally773MTG 9 months ago
@Wally773MTG voice parts*
Icyveins906 3 months ago
My ancestor settled Westminster, Ca.
I went to Westminster in NJ!
Nice job!!
Staymewithflagons 10 months ago
You guys are just amazing, not only you have gorgeous voices (love the basses!), I just adore the passion each one of you sings with and the love and great enthusiasm that your choir director leads you. This makes you SO DIFFERENT from any other choir. This makes you so unique.
Thank you so much !
carloCGN 10 months ago
Quite nice! I believe, however a group of this size and skill should be able to function without a conductor. Not to diminish the role of the man or anything!
One question/complaint... Why do so many members have elevated larynxes? Is it a style thing?
greenethump3 11 months ago
@greenethump3
what? who goes to Choirs of the world without their director???
i dont thinkyou know anything about choir...
39L5X 11 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@greenethump3 whatt? who goes to choir of the worlds with out their director???
i dont think u know anything about choir.
39L5X 11 months ago
@greenethump3 Elevated larynxes? Which parts? I think we must be listening to the wrong thing.
aaa272000 11 months ago
is it westminster in princeton nj?
steve1rox 11 months ago
@steve1rox No Westminster, CA
trumpetguy19 11 months ago
i love the comment " i like the part between 0.00 and 10.53" it beats all those comments about the perpetual 5ths and the major diminished dohickys i love the quality of this live performance its great!!!!
crglo7ver 1 year ago
haha I bet you're even funnier in person.
MrDrewboggess 1 year ago
mrgray4 I have since spoken to the director and found out that they are not that way.. . What I was speaking of is the driving force behind barbershopping. Earlier know as SPEBSQSA which stood for society for the preservation encouragement of barber shop singing in america. Most BBShop choruses allow any and all to join their ranks, but then hold "try outs" if people want to compete or perform in the shows. This allows for the men that cannot sing so well, but enjoy it to be part of the group.
KiltedNerd 1 year ago
Seen this MULTIPLE times, but it's incredible every time....amazing, guys!
CalebFouseMusic 1 year ago
THIS IS AMAZING!!!
yaoigurl08 1 year ago
Is Shenanoah 4 parts or more?
phaseblade 1 year ago
great conductor :)
EveleiNful 1 year ago
All of those overtones are godly, even in Lux you guys managed to place one. For those of the classical singing style, this is what barbershop training does. You can learn dominant seventh chords in jazz, but this genre is epitmoe of mastery when it comes to the major triad. This can help any song: learning to balance and tune chords to the point where soundwaves overlap and cause a ringing buzz to occur. They even pulled it off on a minor chord. You guys are just incredible.
Icyveins906 1 year ago
When's the next time Westminster can compete in this? You guys will win for sure. Also, who arranged Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel? I really want to put in into SATB to get my choir director to see a GOOD arrangement of this song. She doesn't know the difference between gospel and Christian (in this case Jewish technically) spirituals, and frankly can't put the oomph in either. If anyone is a student of Hilary Colton, you know what I mean.
Icyveins906 1 year ago
9:08 is some intense conducting
yomega69 1 year ago
3 of my favorite pieces
luxurytech 1 year ago
I like the part between 0:00-10:53 personally.
itsmeaustin07 1 year ago 66
The chords between 1:40-2:04 are giving me goose bumps too. WOW is the best word for this I think!
geog300 1 year ago
The chords from 7:39 - 7:57 gave me instant goose bumps. Well done. Very well done.
LilKroog 1 year ago
aaaaah. beautiful
happyhappyhappyist 1 year ago
have you checked out reprise quartet singing "how great thou art"? might sound really good with a whole choir. it's a beautiful arrangement. jd
jd7x7 1 year ago
barbershop chorus is a different category in itself with all males singing the satb parts as compared to a mixed male-female choir where the males do only tb while the females the sa part.
sibuyasilikamatis 1 year ago
@sibuyasilikamatis Barbershop music barely puts you into the upper alto ranges most of the time, and even then, it's mostly in the contest (barbershop harmony international convention) level arrangements that you get that high. As a countertenor and bbs singer, I can tell you it's nowhere close 80% of the time. I think the highest bbs note I sang was a C# which occurred once in the song for 1/8th beat. Countertenor was probably the F# on the top of the Treble Cleff held for 8 beats.
Icyveins906 1 year ago
WOW! Goosebumps all over! Would love to see them compete with all the other Choir of the WOrld WInners Like UST SIngers, and the 2 - time Grand Prix Winner Philippine Madrigal SIngers. That would be awesome to watch!
RuebenPaul 1 year ago
Uzávam máju talent, to je jasné, ale to ich mimické vystúpenie =D už akú smiešku som dostal.
fantomastrs77 1 year ago
Exquisite.
countess16 1 year ago
Im from Neyyoor a small village in southern end of India... Saw this video.... Really a world class performance..... Harmony and expression are superb... Hats off to the choir.... Wish u All the Best....
gnanarubin1981 1 year ago
Soloist is toooooo quiet and cant outsing the choir....they needed Shawn DeVine to show them how to do it right.
tigerman4 1 year ago
Perfect conducting at 9:08. Awesome.
For the person looking for their sheet music - they've got a "contact us" page on their website. WestminsterChorus . org
jrbedford 1 year ago
Having raved about you several times - and rightly so - I would like to make one constructive criticism: if your boys were taught how to support the voice on the diaphragm, their forte and fortissimo sound could be as beautiful as the pianissimo. To a classically trained musician it sounds rough. I also wonder if they end performances with sore throats.
jd7x7jd 1 year ago
you win
bennymclain 1 year ago
Love love love love this song! Finally an all male version posted on youtube. ;-)))
Eric Whitacre Rocks!
msowinski64 1 year ago
@msowinski64 Absolutely!!! When i was in high school, we played Eric's piece called October at state band. It made a lot of the people in the audience cry. Such an amazing artist of music.
demonrabbit83 1 year ago
Shenandoah is wonderfull!! Who arranged it? I know the one of James Erb, but I did no know this one.
finchen1967 1 year ago
@finchen1967 arr. -Rick Spencer
walkerTR4 1 year ago
@walkerTR4 where can we find the sheet music to this?
breaux2000 1 year ago
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You will have to forgive me on this one, you guys sound wonderful, but I do not believe that any chorus that restricts its membership by age or any other factor should be able to compete in the standard district competitions. Let us not forget what Barbershopping is all about and why we love it so much. I think it is outstanding, the achievements you guys have made, just don't think it fits the SPEBSQA image.
KiltedNerd 1 year ago
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You will have to forgive me on this one, you guys sound wonderful, but I do not believe that any chorus that restricts its membership by age or any other factor should be able to compete in the standard district competitions. Let us not forget what Barbershopping is all about and why we love it so much. I think it is outstanding, the achievements you guys have made, just don't think it fits the SPEBSQA image.
KiltedNerd 1 year ago
@KiltedNerd What makes you think that membership in this chorus is restricted by age or any other factor? I do believe that for like minded musicians, a chorus that restricts membership based on skill level is very appropriate. It allows for a group in which all who are able to participate, possess the same mind set and ability to create works of art like those evidenced in this video.
mrgray4 1 year ago
Comment removed
KiltedNerd 1 year ago
I luv the faces they pull :D
hobbang2 1 year ago
klasse Vortrag! Danke
finchen1967 1 year ago
I firmly believe that one of the reasons you are winning the barbershop international competition each time is because your chorus does not sing an entire diet of barbershop music. You sing fine choral music with a variety of harmonic styles (including what is almost tone clusters). The Vocal Majority has been the same way, but I don't think they ever did anything as intense as the Lux Aurumque. Bravo!
thelonearranger1 1 year ago
Absolutely wonderful!
CalJennings 1 year ago
I would LOVE to hear this choir perform Ubi Caritas by Durufle. That would be gorgeous.
405232SING 1 year ago 2
The lead soloist reminds a lot of Matthew Ward from 2nd chapter of Acts. Awesome voice. By far my favorite chorus. In fact Westminster is the only chorus cd I own.
SignatureStampsFan 1 year ago
@SignatureStampsFan you also should have a look for Chanticleer. But you are right - this choir does a very good job
finchen1967 1 year ago
love it SOOO much! the voices are amazing ;)
xILBFx 1 year ago
umm... oh! ummm - ma - god!
leestickler 1 year ago
This is how a chorus is supposed to sound. The basses add depth, the tenors are bright and pleasant. Everyone gives 100% to the sound quality, and every piece is studied to the point that they comprehend every aspect of the song. Bravo! You deserve the title Choir Of The World! You guys are my favourite men's chorus. Thank you for posting the videos. I love your sound!
PrestigiousSail 1 year ago 16
Southern California! Where can we go see this live?
FreneticfangsFL 1 year ago
Im going to be in this choir next year, well I have to audition first but I made it into the school for Voice so Im excited now!
amonjojo 1 year ago
This is absolutely AMAZING!!! I would kill to be in a chorus like this one!
Jawshooah 1 year ago
ooh!! these bass voices turn me into a pool of jelly!! :)
katykat121 1 year ago
Whoa! Lux sounds amazing in men's chorus... I will say the solo at the beginning is odd not in supersonic range, though :)
johnpaddie 1 year ago
This shenandoah is to die for. Can we have another performance of it? Who is the arranger of this version?
breaux2000 1 year ago
I wish our mens choir at my shcool would sound this good
MuzicLuva010 1 year ago
Comment removed
jamieyarmoff 1 year ago
@PaladinConstantin
haha, what are you talking about.
BlakeyMoroni 1 year ago
Thats crazy... my High School Chamber Choir that I am apart of is doing Lux AND Shenandoah for a compition we will be in next weekend O.O
Im a Bass 2... low notes = fun ;P
EmoHokage 1 year ago
the dynamic contrasts that this choir can perform, such as going from pp to ff, is absolutely beyond words.
on the ff parts, they're singing beyond the top of their lungs, and it still rings like a bell. incredible.
kghobbes 1 year ago
Odd, my chamber choir in high school did both Lux Aurumque and Didn't My Lord this same year. Obviously we weren't near as good as this. It's odd that we happened to do it the same year. That is, unless our director decided to do what they did on purpose.
SirSci 1 year ago
Oh boy, what can I say? I'm dazzled. It's so beautiful that you can actually see pleasure stamped on the faces of these guys! Fantastic!
PedroRoese 1 year ago
The fact that whenever you see the conductor that he seems so cool and calm (plus very pleased may I add) makes you know this choir rocks all others.
megaballer50 1 year ago
Also, kudos to you guys on the barbershop set and your 2007 performance of strike up the band. That song sounds so fun. Is there sheet music available for the arranement you guys did?
Icyveins906 1 year ago
To any and all men out there who love to sing. Barbershop training on any level will benefit your abilities forever. This is where you learn to belt, even as basses. Such as on the LI-ON'S DEN at the beginning. There is also no better place to learn how to hear certain harmonies from major and minor to diminished, dominant, and augmented. No matter what your choir teachers say, tall vowels are only good for long, slow, foggy sounds, otherwise, it's the megaphone shapeset, WIDE, NO EXCEPTIONS!
Icyveins906 1 year ago
Icyveins, sorry to inform you that is not what we teach at Westminster. Thanks for your endorsement of Barbershop, though.
jmiller823 1 year ago 25
@jmiller823 Ok, I went overboard, but you can even see it in this vid. The rest of what I said beyond vowel shape was correct though, about barbershop teaching something to anyone be it expression, energy, vocal quality, tonal synergy, showmanship, or blending. How I wish every choir in the world would perform instead of just sing. We put on shows, not just vocal treats. A concert of six choirs gets boring if all you hear and see is mouths moving. Expression is just as important as note accuracy
Icyveins906 1 year ago
@jmiller823
Excuse me sir, I was wondering if you were the Director in this video, Joe Miller?
If I have been accepted to Westminster choir college as a voice major and was wondering how do I get into achoir like this there?
amonjojo 1 year ago
@amonjojo Westminster Chorus is not in affiliation with Westminster Choir College. We are based out of Southern California. It is a strange coincidence that Joe Miller is with Westminster Choir College on the east coast and that Justin Miller is in CA with Westminster Chorus.
jmiller823 1 year ago
@jmiller823 can i ask for the shenandoah score? please...
chemedoo23 1 year ago
@jmiller823
chemedoo23 1 year ago
@jmiller823 douche move
MrDrewboggess 1 year ago
@MrDrewboggess Thanks.
jmiller823 1 year ago
@MrDrewboggess douchier move
TenorJOE 1 year ago
@jmiller823 Totally didn't mean to offend you. It's just that sometimes it's polite to let people continue to be ignorant instead of correcting them in front of everyone just for the sake of being correct.
MrDrewboggess 1 year ago
past perfection and past words. beyond best in the world. period.
megaballer50 1 year ago
Westminster is in California, US :)
carjam2005cc 1 year ago
where is this choir mainly from?
cause i have no idea where westminster is....what country?
katykat121 1 year ago
Westminster, California
PACKDEVIL 1 year ago
OMG. i never expected for an all boy choir to sound like this.. super great sound!!! congrats:)
artisticnotes416 1 year ago
The director of the choir is now randomly directing the men's choir at my high school...I flipped out XD
dragonbladeclock 1 year ago
@dragonbladeclock you are among one of the luckiest people in the world. I am beyond jealous.
sephannoj 1 year ago
HOLY $#&! that was amazing
Ryannnn29 1 year ago
who arranged Shanendoah??
jhernandez16 1 year ago
Rick Spencer
madmosse 1 year ago
Incredible performance guys. Easily the best performance of Lux Aurumque I've ever seen/heard. It's great to see a barbershop chorus with great classical chops too. Just curious, what should I expect/prepare for an audition? I plan on being out in California within the next few years and would love to become a part of your amazing chorus.
BlackLotus1786 2 years ago
Are you guys based out of Westminster University in PA, the one in England? Or are you guys a general choir based elsewhere? Amaqzing performance btw.
Icyveins906 2 years ago
Just...WOW
aproctor1968 2 years ago
OMG, you are fantastic!! Congratulations...
cafontes 2 years ago
Wow! These is a very talented group of people GREAT JOB!
BabydollBootz 2 years ago
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I want to make love with the conductor
sexysax92 2 years ago
man can i date ANY ONE OF THESE MEN?
yukita 2 years ago 4
Good lord... It's almost electronic... Precision+emotion... That's unreal
johnpaddie 2 years ago
You can just see the passion in their eyes!
bangubangu 2 years ago
I'm pretty sure the lead on Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel was on NBC last night.
mattdre88 2 years ago
I recognized that guy too......from the socals
paullyboy 2 years ago
@mattdre88
yeah he sings with the Socal Vocals, who was singing in the Sing Off on NBC
TenorJOE 2 years ago
the balance that they create is beautiful. I think balance is hardest thing to create in this piece.
bak2space 2 years ago
I'm sure i've already posted on this video... But this is the most amazing thing I think I've ever heard. You guys should do Sleep, followed by Water Night, then Leonardo Dreams of His Flying Machine. In that order. Thanks! :)
BarbershopHero 2 years ago
Gosh I wish shenandoah was a longer piece so I didn't have to loop it over and over just to get my fix ! :P
noblescallion 2 years ago 29
@noblescallion . Yea I pretty much had to sit down and arrange it. Thats how much i liked it. Im going to try to do it with my group. :)
jhernandez16 1 year ago
@noblescallion
Shenandoah is perhaps the archetypal American folk song, and these guys just do an amazing job with it.
licencedtospill 1 year ago
Fantastic!
Kujo100 2 years ago
So great!
Khailand 2 years ago
the chord at 5:13 is amazing.....wow
MultitrackManiac 2 years ago
@MultitrackManiac
Completely agree. The chord on "water" in Shenandoah...I could live in that chord for the rest of my life.
merryohg 1 year ago
Beautiful all three clips r just splendid. Great work guys!!!
Keep it up for the viewers!!!!
breaux2000 2 years ago
These guys are true "Masters of Harmony"!
msprang16 2 years ago
Man that tenor post starting 2:30 is amazing... and ALL of those chords are just spine-tingling good.
ValReif 2 years ago
ach i love their facial expressions and movements... it truly demonstrates how connected they are to the spirit of the music, to each other and to their own spirit.
rawrfee 2 years ago
Anyone know the arranger of this version of Shenandoah and Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel?
breaux2000 2 years ago