Ward Choirs are not The Mormon Tabernacle Choir!

As we listened to the beautiful sounds of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir this past weekend, as Ward Choir directors, we may have thought, "I need to get that music for my choir!"

There are several reasons why I think this approach will bring disappointing results.

1. The Mormon Tabernacle Choir is an audition choir. This means that the singers are experienced professionals or near professionals so they are able to site-read difficult music. In addition, their voice range is generally much greater than that of the average Ward Choir member, so they can sing those high notes without difficulty.

- Ward Choirs are made up of amateurs, many of whom do not even read music, so giving them such difficult music will only discourage them, and some singers will end up screeching in order to try to sing those high notes.

2. The Tabernacle Choir has 360 members! That means they can sing music that divides into Soprano, Second Soprano, Alto, Contralto, First, Second and Third tenors, Baratones and Basses.

- Ward Choirs generally sing with only ten to fifteen members. There are just not enough singers to divide into that many parts!

3. Having 360 members also gives the Tabernacle Choir the power to raise the rafters in the forte sections.

- Ward Choirs will only strain their voices and destroy the sound if they think they have to sing as loud or try to equal the power of the Tabernacle Choir. Singing with worshipful intent will invite the Spirit.

4. The Tabernacle Choir is accompanied by the organ or the Symphony on Temple Square almost exclusively. Even though many non-musicians think a piano is the same - it is NOT!

- Ward Choirs are usually accompanied by piano. A piano can not match the power of an organ or symphony, but supports the choir with a delicate, contemplative mood.

5. The Tabernacle Choir has access to hundreds of different pieces of music. They have an extensive budget, which is derived from the sale of their CDs around the world, to add to it on a consistent basis.

- Ward Choirs usually have a small library of arrangements, and many Ward Choirs do not have any ward budget money at all.

Ward Choirs do not have to imitate the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. In fact, they shouldn't try to. Both choirs have their place in worshiping the Lord through music.

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord!