Recognizing and honoring 14 year-old Bobby Hill for stunning the world with his impromptu, a cappella rendition of Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Pie Jesu" for Pope Francis at the recent Festival of Families concert in Philadelphia.

WHEREAS, Bobby Hill resides in the 4th Councilmanic District. He is presently a freshman at Central High School, where he plays on the varsity golf team. In addition to his love for music and singing, Bobby also enjoys math and social studies. Bobby dreams of headlining at the Met, as well as other nationally renowned venues, such as Broadway; and

WHEREAS, Bobby’s love for singing began at home. He started singing in the New Covenant Church of Philadelphia Children’s Choir when he was just three years old. At age seven, he joined the Keystone State Boychoir, who was invited to sing for the Pope at the Festival of Families event; and

WHEREAS, With five minutes notice, Bobby was asked to cover an unexpected set change with Webber’s beloved piece from his

Requiem

. With poise beyond his years, Bobby sang on the live telecast for the Holy Father and the millions watching all around the globe. Webber himself called Bobby’s rendition, “absolutely stunning.”

Mark Wahlberg, the event’s emcee, declared Bobby to have “the voice of an angel.” After the outstanding solo, Bobby confidently presented the Pope with a gift from the Keystone State Boychoir, a stone known as “the rock of Peter,” brought back from Antarctica; and

WHEREAS, As a member of the Keystone State Boychoir, Bobby sang in the Opera Philadelphia's production of

La Boheme

at the Academy of Music as a featured performer, as well as appeared as part of the urchin chorus in a one night benefit concert of the musical

Oliver

at the Shubert Theatre on Broadway, with Tony winner Brian Stokes Mitchel. Beyond the Boychoir, Bobby has enjoyed other amazing opportunities to sing in his favorite genre of opera. He had the honor of interpreting the role of “Little Joe” in

Brundibar,

and was a principal in

The Long Walk

at the well-regarded Saratoga Summer Arts Festival; and

WHEREAS, Bobby appeared in the world premiere of

Azaio

in Citta della Pieve, Italy with

International Opera

. Among other musical interests and talents, Bobby also enjoys playing guitar, violin, piano, and pipe organ; and

WHEREAS, He is articulate, and gifted, both intellectually and musically, and is wise-beyond-his-years. Despite the national attention and accolades, Bobby has remained well-grounded. For Bobby, the best part about his rise to fame is the chance to bring joy to others, as well as encourage boys of all walks of life to sing proudly; and

RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby recognizes and honors Bobby Hill for his “angel voice,” his musical talent and for his amazing vocal performance during the Papal Visit which brought honor and esteem to Philadelphia and the Boys Keystone State Boychoir. Bobby Hill’s talent and success encourages everyone to sing proudly and brings admiration to Philadelphia and 4th Council District.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution shall be presented to Bobby Hill as evidence of the sincere admiration and appreciation of this legislative body for his outstanding personal success and amazing vocal talent.

End