A Journey through the History of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir stands as a symbol of musical excellence, captivating audiences with their mesmerizing harmonies and inspiring performances. Rooted in a rich history and deep devotion, this renowned choir has become an enduring cultural institution, blending music and faith to create a legacy that spans over a century.

Formation and Early Years:

The origins of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir can be traced back to the early days of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). In 1847, a group of pioneers settled in the Salt Lake Valley, bringing with them their love for music. The first informal singing groups were formed, which eventually evolved into the early foundations of the choir.

The turning point came in 1849 when the Church constructed the Salt Lake Tabernacle, a magnificent building renowned for its unique acoustics. The tabernacle became the home of the choir, providing the perfect venue for their performances.

Transformation and Growth:

Under the direction of notable conductors, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir continued to evolve and grow throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. John Parry, Ebenezer Beesley, and Evan Stephens were instrumental in shaping the choir's musical identity and elevating its reputation.

The choir's breakthrough moment arrived in 1911 when they embarked on their first national tour, captivating audiences across the United States with their angelic voices. This tour marked the beginning of the choir's global recognition and set the stage for their future international endeavors.

Broadcasting and Fame:

In the late 1920s, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir made history by becoming one of the first choirs to broadcast their performances on the radio. Their weekly radio program, "Music and the Spoken Word," quickly gained popularity and became one of the longest-running continuous network broadcasts in the world.

Throughout the 20th century, the choir collaborated with numerous renowned artists, including Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and the Boston Pops Orchestra, expanding their musical horizons and captivating diverse audiences. Their performances at prestigious events such as presidential inaugurations and the 2002 Winter Olympics further solidified their fame and cultural significance.

Technological Advancements:

With the advent of new technologies, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir embraced innovation to reach wider audiences. In 2000, the choir launched their official website, providing access to their music and allowing fans around the world to experience their enchanting performances.

In 2010, the choir utilized social media platforms, including YouTube and Facebook, to share their music, behind-the-scenes footage, and connect with their global fanbase. This digital presence further extended their reach and showcased their timeless artistry to a new generation of listeners.

Renamed as The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square:

In 2018, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir underwent a significant change. Following an official directive from the Church leadership, the choir was renamed as The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square. This change aimed to align the choir's name with the central place of worship for Latter-day Saints, emphasizing their sacred mission.

The Legacy Continues:

Today, The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square remains a symbol of artistic excellence and religious devotion. Comprised of approximately 360 members, the choir continues to delight audiences with their unparalleled choral performances and soul-stirring renditions.

Whether through their annual Christmas concerts, recordings, or international tours, The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square carries forward a legacy that spans generations, uniting people through the universal language of music and serving as a testament to the power of faith and harmony.

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir, now known as The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, performs on Sunday mornings at 8:30 AM Mountain Standard Time and rehearses on Thursday evening at 5:30 PM. For more details on how to see the choir perform in person visit this link: Tabernacle Choir Tour