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, in the 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 singing 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.
