From the cruel cross on His last day in mortality, Jesus Christ uttered the profound words, "I am the Son of God." The Christian world marks these last moments of the Lord's life with celebration, fasting, prayer and song.
Indeed, Easter is a tribute to the Resurrection of the Savior of the world who broke the bands of death and with His Resurrection fulfilled the promise that life for every one of God's children is everlasting. The Mormon Tabernacle Choir celebrates this magnificent event that "He is risen" with an exceptional Music and the Spoken Word on Easter morn. "Certainly, this is a program that will stir the hearts of listeners everywhere," says Music Director Mack Wilberg. "It certainly has lifted our sights and touched our souls to sing of Him, the Savior of the world." A witness of Jesus Christ and His ministry is the abiding purpose of these 360 Choir members. The Orchestra at Temple Square will join with the Choir on the broadcast as will the members of the choir school who are nearing completion of their training prior to becoming members of the Choir.
The Easter broadcast opens with John Rutter's familiar and majestic "Christ the Lord is Risen Today" and concludes with "Hallelujah" from Messiah by Handel. This moving music is known world-wide for its scriptural lyrics and its magnificent tribute to the Lord. Two of the numbers on the program are included on recent recordings of the Choir. "Be Thou My Vision" arranged by Mack Wilberg is on the award-winning Heavensong album and Rutter's "Look to the Day" is included on the newly released and highly acclaimed Glory! Music of Rejoicing CD.
The Spoken Word by Lloyd Newel addresses "Bent Nails and Broken Hearts" -- a message befitting the sacredness of the Savior's resurrection and Principal Tabernacle organist Richard Elliott's Toccata on "Jesus Shall Reign" brings the voice of the pipes to sing of the Lord as well.