Mormon Tabernacle Choir Sings at Utah Governor’s Inauguration
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir performed at the first of two inaugurations this month. On Wednesday, January 4, 2017, the Choir performed three songs for the inauguration of Utah’s 17th governor, Gary Herbert. The songs performed were “Climb Every Mountain,” “They, the Builders of the Nation” and “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”
During Herbert’s inaugural address he praised the Utah pioneer spirit, which goes along with the lyrics of “They, the Builders of the Nation,” saying that the early Mormon pioneers faced "grueling weather and the sickness and hunger that made up the hardship of the trail. They persevered." He continued, "They unselfishly built the roads and bridges for those who would subsequently follow, improving the way for their success.”
According to the Deseret News, “About 1,100 people attended the hourlong ceremony, which also included the administration of the oath of office to Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox, Attorney General Sean Reyes, Auditor John Dougall and Treasurer David Damschen.”
On January 20, 2017, the Choir will also perform during the inauguration ceremony for President-elect Donald J. Trump and Vice President-elect Michael R. Pence. The Choir’s long tradition of performing for US Presidents of both parties at Inaugurations and in other settings is not an implied support of party affiliations or politics. It is a demonstration of our support for freedom, civility and the peaceful transition of power.