The Osmonds and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir: Remembering the Pioneer Day Concerts
The Osmonds have been performing together for over 50 years, a remarkable feat to say the least. People all over the world have connected the Osmond family with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (also known as the Mormon Church), for as long as they’ve been a household name. It only seemed natural to celebrate their 50-year anniversary with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, so that’s just what they did. "Can you imagine 50 years? It's unbelievable, and the life they have lived, the example they have set, not only for the Church, but the entire world!" said Mac Christensen, former president of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
In July of 2008, the Osmonds joined the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square for the annual Pioneer Day concerts. Merrill Osmond said, "Everywhere we've traveled, people always bring up the Mormon Tabernacle Choir." People think of them as part of the extended Mormon family, he said, "but we haven't had a chance until now to join our voices with the choir in a united message for the world to hear about faith and family."
"We're delighted," added Mack Wilberg, director of the choir. "The Osmonds belong to the world, but they've always had a special connection to those in this area. Tonight we will all be doing the things that we do well."
The family expressed their sincere excitement to be a part of these concerts and said they were thrilled to be coming home. Their own family’s pioneer heritage in Idaho and Utah began with their ancestors who crossed the plains with the Mormon pioneers.
In 2003, the Osmond family was given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which honors outstanding achievements in the entertainment industry. In the videos below, Donnie and Marie Osmond each gave a warm welcome to the Choir when the Choir's YouTube channel officially launched in 2012.