Many of my nonmember friends have seen or heard the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. They have asked how one can become a member of the choir. Are only members of the Church permitted to belong?

Richard P. Condie, choir director In the Doctrine and Covenants the Lord says:

“For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads.” (D&C 25:12.)

The blessings of listening to and singing with the Tabernacle Choir have always been sought by good people, both members and nonmembers. We are often asked how a singer may participate in the choir.

Since the Tabernacle Choir performs an important missionary service, it is important that choir members be members of and active in the Church.

The choir has a seating capacity of approximately 375; therefore, new members must wait until there is a choir vacancy.

Members are chosen from among those who have auditioned with the conductors to determine the quality of their voices and their level of musical ability.

Another important factor is the availability and schedule of the singers. Choir members must attend rehearsals, broadcasts, general conference sessions, recording sessions, and other performance commitments.

The singers are not paid for performing; they pay all of their own expenses to and from rehearsals.

The Tabernacle Choir is best known for its Sunday morning broadcast and for its record albums. In addition, it has traveled throughout North America and Europe to give concerts. In 1973 the choir sang in Germany, France, and England, in addition to engagements closer to home.