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The Tabernacle Choir Celebrates 5,000 Episodes of 'Music & the Spoken Word'

On July 13, 2025, the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square will celebrate a remarkable milestone by airing its 5,000th episode of the iconic program, 'Music & the Spoken Word.' This historic broadcast will take place from the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, and is expected to reach an audience of over six million people across more than fifty countries, showcasing the program's extensive international influence.

The journey of 'Music & the Spoken Word' began on July 15, 1929–just before the onset of the Great Depression. It has since become the longest-running continuous program in American broadcast history. In 2010, it was honored with an induction into the Radio Hall of Fame, reflecting its significance in the landscape of American media.

According to Perry Sook, Joint Board Chairman of the National Association of Broadcasters, the achievement encapsulates more than just longevity. It stands for a commitment to excellence and a public service mission that underscores the importance of faith and music in uniting people worldwide. Michael O. Leavitt, the Choir's President, emphasized that the Choir aims to inspire individuals globally and share God's love through their music. The aim is to continue this legacy, creating a sense of solace during turbulent times.

Over the years, 'Music & the Spoken Word' has been a source of comfort during significant events in history, including the aftermath of World War II, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the shocking Challenger explosion, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic. It has also marked moments of celebration, reflecting on the joy that music can bring in difficult times.

Derrick Porter, the executive producer and principal writer of the program, noted that 'Music & the Spoken Word' offers listeners a moment of peace in an increasingly chaotic world. “It serves as a vital resource for those seeking calm and reassurance,” he said.

The Tabernacle Choir, made up of 360 members, has traveled the globe, performing in prestigious venues like the Sydney Opera House and during significant political events, including the inaugurations of seven U.S. presidents since 1965. The Choir has not only received four Emmy Awards and a Grammy Award, but it has also been recognized with prestigious accolades such as the National Medal of Arts in 2003.

Since its inception, the program has produced over 200 recordings, earning two platinum and five gold albums and achieving the number one spot on Billboard's classical music charts multiple times. Its impact is profound, with a blend of musical excellence and an unwavering dedication to uplifting messages that resonate across generations.

As the 5,000th episode approaches, the Tabernacle Choir reaffirms its commitment not only to its music but also to its mission of community service, making it a cherished part of the lives of many. Fans are encouraged to tune in and join the celebration, reflecting on how music can bridge distances and unite the human experience.

For more in-depth information about the Tabernacle Choir, visit their website here or connect with them through their social media channels, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.