News · 18 October 2026
Libera celebrates BBC Young Chorister win and announces new album ‘Light’
Photo: Benedict Hymas
We are celebrating after eleven-year-old Jerome was crowned BBC Young Chorister of the Year 2026 in the final which was broadcast on BBC One’s Songs of Praise on Sunday 18 October.
To celebrate we have released a new video of Were You There When They Crucified My Lord, the traditional spiritual which Jerome performed during the competition. The new recording was arranged by Libera’s Musical Director Sam Coates.
The song will be released as a digital single on 30 October.
We are also delighted to announce a new album. Light will be released on 19th March 2027, and we will release more details and previews in the coming weeks.
Huge congratulations to Jerome. He joins Luca, who won the boy’s section a few years back, in the YCOTY club. 2 Libera winners in recent years. This justifies my belief that Libera is the best choir in the world. So much talent in one place.
When I first saw and heard Jerome sing, he really stood out to me. The way he doesn’t just sing the songs but lives them and becomes one with each song.
He really deserved to win.
I fully agree! Another Libera member wins Young Chorister! Glad you mentioned Luca, he was amazing (still is).
Congratulations Jerome, what a faultless performance.Ke
Wonderful amazing rendering of this song. You brought it full of emotions. This performance touched my heart. 💓💞
So happy for You.
👏 Congratulations
Congratulations Jerome!!!! You sound amazing! I can not wait for the new album!