Be Thou My Vision: Music for The Tabernacle Choir
On July 29, as part of their 'Music and the Spoken Word' broadcast, it was an honor to have my new arrangement of Be Thou My Vision premiered by the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square, and Leticia Oaks Strong, guest violist from the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
What a remarkable and exciting opportunity to feature the talents of these 400+ world-class musicians! In arranging this combined piece, my approach was to feature the choir, orchestra, and soloist separately as well as together, in a meaningful, musical way, and that the development of phrase and fabric would feel whole and complete in four to five minutes. Additionally, the text and tune is from Ireland, for which the viola solo hints in her folk-like ballade opening.
Dress rehearsal
With Leticia Oaks Strong and Mack Wilberg
With Utah Master Chorale alumni, now Tabernacle Choir singers, Travis Stockwell and Boyd Fisher
To be in person for a rehearsal and performance with the Choir is inspiring. The count-singing at the Thursday night rehearsal made me smile as my own singers would feel very at home with this. Then again, upon arriving early for the Sunday morning broadcast, it was a special moment to hear the familiar strains being rehearsed a final time as our family entered the back of the Conference Center and found our seats. I am so very pleased with the beautiful music that was made by all, and particularly for Leticia Oaks Strong, and Dr. Mack Wilberg, Conductor of the Choir and Orchestra. One could not ask for a more memorable experience than collaborating with such gracious and talented musicians.
Music and the Spoke Word Broadcast #4637 (July 29, 2018)
What Music Should I Perform with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir? (Tabernacle Choir Interview, August 31, 2018)
Tyler Choral Director Arranges Piece for Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra (Tyler Morning Telegraph, July 13, 2018)
Be Thou My Vision was commissioned by Andy and Tanna Bayola
Publication available here