History
Formed in 1999, the Orchestra fulfilled LDS Church leaders' longtime dream of having a permanent orchestra both to enhance the quality of Mormon Tabernacle Choir performances and to involve instrumental musicians in Church music projects on the same volunteer basis as Tabernacle Choir members. While some initial recording contracts in the first years of the Orchestra's existence were paid, with the creation of the Tabernacle Choir's own recording label the 110-member Orchestra has evolved into a purely volunteer organization. Although many Orchestra members are professional musicians, in order to participate they are required to give their time and talents to the Orchestra at Temple Square without financial compensation.
Like the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, the Orchestra at Temple Square makes its home in the Salt Lake Tabernacle on Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah. During structural renovations to the Tabernacle, the Orchestra rehearsed and performed in the adjacent LDS Conference Center, as did the Choir.
The Orchestra was initially directed by former Tabernacle Choir associate director (and current Creative Director of Utah Chamber Artists) Barlow Bradford. Under his direction the group developed into a critically acclaimed symphony orchestra. Barlow Bradford unexpectedly resigned shortly after the 2002 Olympics. The Orchestra continued under the musical supervision of Tabernacle Choir director Craig Jessop until his abrupt resignation on March 4, 2008. Under his direction the Orchestra increased its role as accompanist to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Temple Square Chorale, but continued to perform and tour on its own under the baton of Igor Gruppman, concertmaster of the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra.
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