Washington, D.C. – Performances in the presidential inauguration parade, two concerts, and a radio/television broadcast highlight appearances of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir in the nation’s capital beginning next week. The choir is responding to an invitation from the inauguration committee to participate in the national event.
“It’s an honor for all of us in the choir to participate,” says Tabernacle Choir Director, Craig Jessop. “It’s been called the ‘Choir of Presidents’ and Ronald Reagan called it ‘America’s Choir.’ It’s such a beloved institution that transcends any denominational or political boundaries.” The choir will first perform at a free public concert on Friday, 19 January, 8:00 p.m. EST, at George Mason University, Center for the Arts Concert Hall. (See attachment for complete program.) The choir will be joined by a 19-piece ensemble from the Orchestra at Temple Square. Admission is free, but because seating is limited, tickets are required. Tickets will be distributed through the 16 stakes of the Church in the Washington, D.C. area later this week. For anyone not affiliated with one of those church stakes, please call 202-662-7480.
Saturday the 320 choir members travel aboard a large float in the inauguration parade while signing Battle Hymn of the Republic, God Bless America and America the Beautiful. At 9:00 EST Sunday morning, the choir’s weekly broadcast will be recorded at George Mason University. The broadcast is open to the public at no charge, but tickets are required. Doors will open at 8:00 a.m. and members of the audience must be seated by 8:30 a.m. Entrance to the broadcast will include an additional brief concert.
EXTRA These extra items can be downloaded from the Internet at www.media.lds.org in the News Releases section.
- Photos of the Tabernacle Choir
- Sound bites – Craig Jessop, Director of the Tabernacle Choir
- Tabernacle Choir concert program
- Choir’s Past Participation in Presidential Inaugurations
- Mormon Tabernacle Choir – background notes
- Mormon Tabernacle Choir – historical points
- Awards, Honors, and Recognition