When Grammy-award winning songwriter and producer David Foster collaborated with Grammy-award winner Carole Bayer Sager to write “The Prayer”, it was a match made in heaven……..As our hearts are aching for the people of Haiti, and many other sorrows throughout the world, both public and private, I cannot think of a better time to offer up this musical prayer for peace, love, safety and comfort…. Continue reading »
Tagged with music …
Anthem For A New Year
On January 4, 2008, after four years of extensive renovation, the Utah State Capitol building held a formal Re-dedication ceremony. The ceremony’s 2008 program was based on the program used during the original dedication in 1916.
Included among the many performances was a new musical commission entitled “Anthem for a New Year: Into Light”.
The lyrics were a new poem written by Utah’s Poet Laureate Katharine Coles, PhD, and set to music by Utah composer Kurt Bestor. The premeire was conducted by Craig Jessop, and the extensive cast of local performers included The Mormon Tabernacle Choir, the Utah Symphony Orchestra, The Bells on Temple Square, the 23rd Army Band, the International Children’s Choir, and the Cathedral of the Madeleine Choir School.
The poem compares the cold dark winter dawning slowly into spring as an allegory for our personal opportunities to change with the season, reach for new possibilities, and become beings of light.
Watch A Video Of This Musical Premiere Continue reading »
The Last Letter Home: A Soldier’s Song
On May 1, 2003 husband, father, son and friend, US Army Pfc. Jesse Givens died in Iraq in the service of his country. He was 34 years old. Givens was parked in an M-1 main battle tank alongside the bank of the Euphrates River in Al Habbaniyah, Iraq. The riverbank gave way, resulting in the tank falling into the river. His comrades tried desperately and unsuccessfully to free him. Ironically, Pfc. Jesse A. Givens drowned in the desert…
Hear the story, and watch the musical performance of his last Letter Home. Continue reading »
Resolution Time and Einstein
It’s time for “making the list” and “checking it twice”. And, no, we’re not talking about the big guy in the red suit [that was LAST week]. I’m talking about YOUR list. Or, more accurately, YOURS, MINE and OURS. The infamous “New Year Resolutions List”. And, if you’re like me, you’re quietly pulling out last year’s list and quickly dusting it off….”Voila! All done!”
….
Here are some Helpful hints from Einstein! And, Don’t miss the “motivational” music video! Continue reading »
O Holy Night – Cantique de Noël
On Christmas Eve 1906, a 33-year-old university professor, and former chief chemist for Thomas Edison, named Reginald Fessenden did something long thought impossible. Using a new type of generator, Fessenden spoke into a microphone and, for the first time in history, a man’s voice was broadcast over the airwaves…
LEARN THE fascinating history of the beloved Christmas Carol “Cantique de Noël” [O Holy Night]. This post includes a video clip of The Mormon Tabernacle Choir performing Mack Wilberg’s arrangement. Continue reading »
The Shepherd’s Story
On the 25th Day of December, MoSop wishes you a Merry Christmas! … as we pause to Celebrate, Rejoice, and Remember.
The night of Jesus’ birth shepherds near Bethlehem were tending their sheep. … This post remembers the shepherds important role, and includes a new MoSop Movie illustrating the song “While Shepherds Lately Knelt” Continue reading »
Christmas Eve Carols
On the 24th Day of our December julibee…It is time for some Christmas Eve Carols to lighten your festivity!
[music videos included] Continue reading »
Messiah: Handel’s Musical Prophecy
“On The 21st Day of Christmas Countdown we contemplate the vision of Handel’s musical gift…combined with Isaiah, a timeless prophesy to uplift!”
Learn more about the Oratorio “Messiah”, and explore the similarities between the Prophet Isaiah, and the Composer Joseph Frideric Handel …
Includes Music Videos: “For Unto Us A Child Is Born” and “Hallelujiah Chorus”. Continue reading »
Joy To The World For Everyone
On The 18th Day of Christmas Countdown feel blessings from above … by watching the “Joy To Everyone” music video, made with love!
Continue reading »
You Would Have Loved This
On the 16th Day it isn’t always enough … to smile and grin and try to be tough… A post on coping with Grief and Loss at Christmas time.
Today, my message of hope and praise is just a little different from the norm. I wish to acknowledge the suffering that often accompanies this time of year when empty chairs and broken hearts seem especially out of place.
This Post includes an interview with singer-songwriter Cori Connors, and a NEW MoSop Movie Premeire “You Would Have Loved This”, from Cori’s Christmas CD: “Sleepy Little Town”. [watch in HD!] Continue reading »
A Sleigh Ride with Stokes
On The 14th day of Christmas celebrate the yuletide … with Brian Stokes Mitchell singing “Sleigh Ride”! Continue reading »
“Do You Have Room?” Song Sensation
A new song has been released just in time for Christmas by LDS / Mormon musician Shawna Belt Edwards which is taking the world by storm. It asks the timeless question: “Do YOU have room for the Savior?” … Learn more, and Watch the inspiring video!
Continue reading »
LDS Christmas Devotional 2009
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints holds a Christmas Devotional on the first Sunday of each December. The December 6, 2009 Christmas Devotional is now available … This post provides direct links to view. Enjoy! Continue reading »
A Russian Christmas Miracle
I beleive that when music is performed with the spirit of God, it is the most powerful tool He has on earth in preparing a soul, softening a mind, and touching a heart. This story is a perfect example of how the power of spiritual music made a difference one cold December night in Moscow. Continue reading »
New Words
“On The 6th Day of Christmas, MoSop shares a music treat”…
…The Song “NEW WORDS” performed by Brian Stokes Mitchell (so sweet!) Today’s gift is a new MoSop Movie, featuring one of the songs “Stokes” performed during last year’s Tabernacle Choir Christmas Concert in SLC. I feel this particular song captures the true essense of Christmas, and offers . Enjoy!
Beautiful Christmas Feet
On the 4th Day of Christmas, MoSop sent a treat…Beautiful Christmas Feet! Enjoy tapping your toes along to this amazing musical performance by Tabernacle Choir Organist Richard Elliott. Continue reading »
Sunshine In My Soul Today
Recently I have been taking nature walks during my lunch hour. Not only has this been refreshing to my mind and body, but also to my soul. I started carrying my camera with me on these afternoon adventures, and ended up with quite a collection of photos! Looking at them has filled me with gratitude for … Continue reading »
More Holiness, More Freedom
This past weekend I was archiving files on my computer, and I discovered some photos I took in July 2008. One image in particular has captured my attention. If a “picture is worth a thousand words” then this one certainly tells a beautiful story… Continue reading »
Gracie’s Theme has Cardall’s Healing Touch
Mormon musician Paul Cardall was born in 1973 with a severe congenital heart defect. He has undergone countless surgeries, and is currently wait-listed for a heart transplant. This is his last hope. He dreams of living long enough to raise his little girl Eden alongside his beautiful wife Lynette. Ironically, Paul possesses an exceptional art for healing others. Despite his failing … Continue reading »
Gethsemane Song
Watch a video of A beautiful song entitled “Gethsemane” – written by Roger and Melanie Hoffman. Continue reading »
Come, Come Ye Saints, All Is Well
Today is a special day. On July 24, 2009 the Mormon Pioneers entered the Salt Lake Valley after years of persecution and an arduous trek of over 1300 miles - blazing what became known as the Mormon Trail. I have blogged before about Honoring The Mormon Pioneers, and my own pioneer heritage. It is something I treasure. … Continue reading »
AFRICA A’Cappella
Every once in awhile a group comes along that adds a whole new dimension to what people can do with the unaccompanied voice! Continue reading »
You’re Not Alone
There are times in our life when we are going to feel completely and utterly alone. I have endured these. Some have only lasted a moment, or a day. Other experiences have lasted over a long extended period of time. These feelings are painful, frightening, and often seem overwhelming. If ever you are feeling lonliness, hopelessness, or fear, I want … Continue reading »
Don’t Forget To Pray
Prayer is one of the most fundamental aspects of my spirituality, and relationship with God. My parents taught me to pray before I could even speak the words…
This post includes a MUSIC VIDEO Continue reading »
Don’t Turn Around
Recently my heart has become tender as I ponder the bitter-sweet truth of being a parent. Our babies grow up. On one hand, it is a thrill to see Baby reach milestones . We celebrate her very first step, the first word, the first loose tooth and the first day of school, among a long list … Continue reading »
New Choir Videos
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir has released an official video press kit that includes over 30 informational segments which I am positive you will enjoy watching. – SEE LINKS Continue reading »
National Hymn: God Of Our Fathers
Many are familiar with the National Anthem of the United States of America, however did you know there is also a National Hymn? This is a beloved song included in the Latter-day Saint Hymnal. Learn more about its history, and watch a music video. Continue reading »
You’ll Never Walk Alone
A new MoSop music video bringing you a message of hope and peace. Continue reading »
My Song In The Night: Video
New music video Continue reading »
