Vox Fortis Blow the Roof Off: The Surprise Operatic Powerhouse of BGT 2016 | Auditions Week 4
Every once in a while, a group steps onto the Britain’s Got Talent stage and completely changes the energy in the room. In Week 4 of the 2016 auditions, that moment came when a group of sharply dressed men introduced themselves as Vox Fortis. Little did the judges—or the audience—know, they were about to witness a vocal performance so powerful it shook the rafters of the theatre. 🎶💥
From the second they opened their mouths, it was clear: this wasn’t going to be your average boy band audition. Vox Fortis brought operatic vocals, cinematic drama, and emotional intensity, wrapped in a performance that left Simon Cowell wide-eyed and viewers reaching for the rewind button. 📺🔁
Let’s take a closer look at this unforgettable audition, how it unfolded, and why Vox Fortis became one of the standout moments of BGT 2016.
🎬 The Calm Before the Storm: Who Are Vox Fortis?
As they walked on stage, Vox Fortis came across as composed, courteous, and even a bit understated. With matching black suits and modest introductions, they didn’t give away much. But their name—Latin for “Strong Voice”—was the first clue that something special was about to happen. 💡🎵
The group is made up of four classically trained vocalists: Baswaine Charles, Rodney Clarke, Julius Williams, and Lawrence O’Connor. Each member brought years of vocal experience to the group, and together, they created a blend of voices that was both rich and explosive.
When asked why they formed the group, they gave a simple yet powerful answer: “We want to bring classical music to a wider audience.” 🎻🌍
Little did they know, they were about to do just that in the most dramatic way.
🎶 The Performance That Left Everyone Speechless
As the music began—“Nella Fantasia,” a hauntingly beautiful piece adapted from Ennio Morricone’s “Gabriel’s Oboe”—a hush fell over the theatre. That first note? It was crystal clear, full-bodied, and arresting. And when the harmonies kicked in… chills. Literal chills. 😮❄️
The combination of their operatic strength, emotional delivery, and sheer vocal control was unlike anything the BGT audience had seen that season. By the time they hit the crescendo, you could see jaws dropping across the room.
Even the judges, who’ve seen everything from fire-eating magicians to singing dogs, were visibly moved.
Amanda Holden gasped.
David Walliams nodded with sincere admiration.
And yes, Simon Cowell leaned forward, which, as every BGT fan knows, means he’s genuinely impressed. 😲👍
When they finished, the theatre erupted into applause and a standing ovation. The moment was electric. ⚡🙌
Did you love Vox Fortis as much as we did? Let us know your favorite moment from their performance or drop a 🎵 if their voices gave you goosebumps!
