Tabernacle Choir Performs at Inauguration of Governor Cox

The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square performed at Utah Governor Spencer Cox’s inauguration at the Eccles Theatre in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Wednesday, January 8, 2025.

“The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square never disappoints, and it carries with it a spirit that pervades any event or group or circumstance, and today will be no exception,” said Choir President and former Utah Governor Michael O. Leavitt.

Before the ceremony began, Governor Cox spoke to the Choir and orchestra.

“It means the world to me and means the world to our state that the Choir is here today. There is no one that ties generations together better than [the Tabernacle Choir]. I hope it’s a great day for Utah and a very spiritual day for us all.”

Elder Kevin W. Pearson, Utah Area President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, offered the invocation. He asked that the governor and those in his office be blessed with wisdom, discernment and compassion in their decision-making during difficult times.

“We pray for harmony in our lives, our homes, our communities, the state, our nation, and across this troubled world,” Elder Pearson said.

The Choir sang “Battle Hymn of the Republic” and “Homeward Bound.” The opportunity to perform was a special occasion for Choir members.

“I feel so honored to be here today. I feel it’s a great privilege. I come from a long line of public service in Utah, through the military and government positions,” said Missy Omer, a Choir member. “The Choir can help bridge communities. Its music is a universal language. It speaks beyond political parties, cultures, regions and languages and touches the heart.”

Nathan Gibbons, a bass in the Choir, added, “I love this state and [am] from Orem, Utah, and it means the world to be a part of this. This state means everything to me.”

In addition to President Leavitt, former Utah governors Jon Huntsman Jr. and Gary Herbert attended the event. President Dallin H. Oaks of the Church’s First Presidency and his wife, Kristen, were also present.

During his inaugural address, Governor Cox referenced a recent ranking that placed Utah as the best state in the nation. He said, “Utah is not number one because of the government; it is number one because of the people.”

Rob Carroll, senior advisor of communications for the governor’s office, said that the music provided by the Choir aligns with the governor’s wishes to create unity in Utah.

“A few things can bring us together, and The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square does that,” Carroll said. “[They have] the power of music to bring us together, to help us feel a sense of community and belonging. They did that really well today, and it was a really special experience.”