Deseret News | Osmonds, Tabernacle Choir unite in song

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Osmonds, Tabernacle Choir unite in song

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Maureen in Perth Australia | 6:10 p.m. July 28, 2008

I tuned in to the concert via byu on the laptop and I was very moved by the choir and the Osmond Family.Both performances were wonderful, the reception was crystal clear and the choir was very uplifting. The Osmonds have a love for each other that is so obvious and the support they give to every member of their extended family is wonderful. Their respected spouses deserve a mention too, as they married into a close family and are required to share their partners time and love. Bigger hearts would be hard to find on this planet and we thank Mother and Father Osmond for raising such fine siritual people. God love you all Osmonds Family.

Sharon Dunbar | 7:39 p.m. July 28, 2008

I flew all the way from Michigan to see Donny & Marie in Las Vegas (most fantastic concert I've ever seen!) and then drove to Salt Lake to see the whole family sing at the conference center. The last few days have been awesome! I know Mother and Father Osmond were smiling down at them! In a time when there are few celebrities that your kids can emulate, I will forever be grateful that I grew up an Osmond fan!

Debbie | 8:00 p.m. July 28, 2008

To all you negative people - You have a right to your opinion, but you cannot change how the rest of us felt! Those of us that were there FELT the SPIRIT of the celebration! It was REAL! RE: ME Aren't y'all just a little tired of the Rolling Stones? The Eagles? Aerosmith? Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band? The too have been around 40+ years, but they still draw crowds - The Osmonds at least know how to put on a nice, entertaining CLEAN Family show! What other group or entertainer can you say that about? I dare you to name ONE! These days they think they have to use garbage language to entertain. The Osmonds are AWESOME & you can take your children to their concerts without worrying about being offended. We do not have enough entertainers like them, saddly. Thank you Osmond Family for making the entertainment world a better place for families! Wish you could go on forever!! God Bless you!

Comments continue below

M Brown | 9:47 p.m. July 28, 2008

Many dear ones missed your beautiful concert. Please make a DVD available ASAP. We are anxious to share your music. THANK YOU, thank you, thank you to the many who worked to make this great production possible. THANKS for the long hours spent. Your sweet spirits touched and thrilled your audiences. You are sincerely appreciated!

CP | 10:31 p.m. July 28, 2008

To Debbie @ 8pm july 28: Thanks for your words. I watched it with my family at home( and all of us are under 50) and we felt the Spirit very strong. And I'm sure that the Mormon Tab Choir enjoyed it very much. Those of you who don't think it was good I guess didn't see them perform with The Oak Ridge Boys in the Conference Center for a 4th of July celebration (only it was recorded in April) and members of the Choir were asking them to sing "Bobby Sue". And that was under the direction of Craig Jessop. My husband and I were there for it. So, just goes to show that they do enjoy singing more then just hymns. Those of you who only want to hear them sing hymns you should only see them during Conference and that's it. Cause they do perform other types of songs. So having the Osmonds and the Choir and Orchestra together was GREAT and very spritual.

did you know | 12:03 a.m. July 29, 2008

the Osmond's had planned to do only one 50th anniversary concert in Las Vegas. The tickets sold out in record breaking time for a Vegas show. They decided to add a couple of more shows because of how quickly the first show sold out. It actually broke the record for quickest sell out. (This according to our PBS station in California that aired the Vegas concert.) That says alot about the popularity of this family even after all these years, especially in a place like Las Vegas where many people aren't interested in wholesome entertainment. I've met Marie on several occasions and she is a lovely and gracious lady. I appreciate that she can still smile despite the heartaches that life dishes out. She is an example of grace under pressure.

AZ OS FAN | 12:33 a.m. July 29, 2008

I am not LDS (Catholic), and say much thanks to the organizers of this wonderful program for inviting the Osmond Family to sing on it, definitely the highlight of the entire program! I am under 50 & am definitely a rock music fan & have been a devoted fan of the entire Osmond Family since 1971. This program also gave me a chance to hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir for the first time, and they were angelic (beautiful music)! The entire Osmond Family, with their strong (and vocal) beliefs in both the family and their faith, are excellent examples of what the pioneers were back then so I don't understand the people that are saying they didn't "fit" with the theme of the Pioneer Day spirit. If they knew the Osmonds music, they would definitely know how spiritual it truly is! The Osmond Family is definitely a credit to the LDS church & to themselves and certainly deserved the standing ovations they received for their beautiful and heartfelt performance. Thanks again, just wanted to let everyone know that The Osmonds have touched many, many people from all different denominations & continue to do so to this day.

Kathi | 2:21 a.m. July 29, 2008

I did see part of the concert on Youtube and BYU-TV). What a beautifully arranged event. I'm too young to remember the Osmond Brothers (just 38), but do remember them coming on Donny and Marie's show in the '70s. They're a beautiful family and I still kind of wish our family could be like theirs.

Nigel (UK) | 4:29 a.m. July 29, 2008

Thank you to the whole team: Osmonds, Choir, Orchestra, Conductors - everyone front and back of the house: especially the team who work so hard to permit me to see the programme on the internet.
Over 50, loved the feeling - tears included.
Loved the combination, all professionals working with the spirit. Proud of our heritage - our legacy to a world in which there are so many negative things.
Am I predudiced - yes! Alan Osmond, my wife's missionary. My first missionary companion and I sang songs from The Plan. The Mormon Tabernacle Choir are respected, the world over.
Then the First Presidency gives permission and their blessing to combine the two! It was great on the internet (thanks), but what a rush there must have been to be together within The Conference Centre. To be "in the moment" to feel the feelings as different types and sentiments of music combine to uplift.
The original pioneers have my undying love and respect; without them we would not be.
But, all hail to this and the next generation as they add to what has gone to what is yet to come.

Gina in Chicago | 7:20 a.m. July 29, 2008

Been with the Osmonds ever since the Andy Williams days and I'll be with them forever! This is the family that taught me about love, faith and family values and who were my first missionaries. I will be forever greatful! Thank you for a wonderful performance, Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and for years of entertainment and staying true to the faith, Osmonds! You are a light on a hill that cannot be hidden! God bless you all!

Hey Mack | 9:53 a.m. July 29, 2008

Mack Wilberg's arrangement of Come Come Ye Saints was typical late (bland) Wilberg, not nearly as moving or as colorful as LeRoy Robertson's arrangement (from which Wilberg lifted the chord progression for the last verse). Mack's done some good work, but he is getting tired. He needs some time off to get a new fix on music.

Phil & Pam Smithson | 11:37 a.m. July 29, 2008

We came from England on holiday and managed to get tickets at the last minute from a friend over here. My wife is an avid Osmonds fan and I love listening to the MTC but would have never gone to an Osmonds concert. Wow! what a performance.The inclusion of the older Osmonds signing the songs was inspirational. The M & SW on Sunday morning with Pres Monson in attendance really was something special. It was worth the air fare just to see these performances, the rest of the holiday will be a bonus.

MoJules | 1:54 p.m. July 29, 2008

I have to admit, I hated the Osmond's, I never listened to them, I was a Senior in high school and Donny was this little kid singing about love. I thought he doesn't know anything about love, like I did. I was at an age where it would not be cool to like a kid that was 3-4 years younger. I watched the Osmond special on Saturday, and also on Sunday and they were awesome. These past couple of years I have really started to like them, and admire the good things that have come from that family. I know that there have been trials, but they have risen above it and not hid their face. The true hero's of this family are the two oldest boys, what a gift and sacrifice they made to have this disability that was what created this family talent. I do not doubt that God knew what he was doing when he placed these children in the family and in the order they were placed. I am glad to see that the Osmond's are still doing well after all these years, they were very enjoyable to watch, hope to see Donny dancing this fall.

DeLayne Mifflin | 3:27 p.m. July 29, 2008

I have grown up with the Osmonds. The original four boys often sang at our Stake Conferences. I was in the same Speech class as Alan at Highland Jr. High at the time of their very first performance on the Andy Williams Show. My Father used to work at the Ogden Post Office with their Father, and my Father and their Mother happened to leave this world on the same morning. This world lost two very great souls that morning! I have always had a special place in my heart for the Osmonds and have been a huge fan. My husband and I were fortunate to see Donny & Marie in Las Vegas on July 19th - fabulous! We were also fortunate to get tickets to the Friday night concert with the Tabernacle Choir, which was BEYOND FABULOUS!!!! To the Osmonds -- I had tears in my eyes and was very emotional during most of the time you were on stage. It was so great to see Alan performing for, perhaps, the last time. Thanks to all of you for being such good examples and may God bless you all. I'm a fan forever. Keep up the good work.

To Just Curious | 3:36 p.m. July 29, 2008

I am a convert due to the great example of the Osmond family. In the early 70's I literally ate, breathed, slept EVERYTHING Osmond...I was totally wacked out of my mind obsessed! I bought every magazine I could get my hands on and ate up every word I read about them (Fave, Tiger Beat, 16..anyone but me remember those?) Because of their AMAZING example, I investigated the Church and joined at the age of 15. The Gospel has been such an amazing miraculous blessing in my life and I will forever be grateful to my "FIRST MISSIONARIES." I got a chance to meet Donny several years ago at the Hill Cumorah pageant (he was playing Samuel the Lamanite) and if I recall correctly, I told him he was my first missionary (I'll have to consult my journal for the actual conversation...at the time I was 15 all over again). I watched this concert on the internet and would have loved to see it in person (I saw them in concert in the 70's, twice). To say they were amazing is an understatement. I love them dearly and am so impressed with how they live the Gospel.
MJ in VA

Embarrssed | 4:31 p.m. July 29, 2008

Tell me this was a nightmare - I turned on the TV and saw the MTC with the Osmond's - cheesy, tacky stuff. Donnie yelling "We've been given the approval to PARTY!!" Tell me it ain't so!! Has Mac Wilberg lost his mind! No wonder Jessop walked out! What next the Brett Family - whoops too late.

Carol Bartlett | 5:19 p.m. July 29, 2008

I have alwys loved the Osmands I think they are a wonderful Family. I love maries song Paper Roses. And I love the song wipping willow and other songs they do I would like a Cd please. Thank you Sister Carol Bartlett Continue doing Donnie and Marie and family.

fitting tribute | 6:21 a.m. July 30, 2008

like many thousands of others throughout the world, I received my introduction to the gospel via The Osmonds. What a fitting tribute that concert was to a wonderful family. I hope it will be released on dvd.

for those who thought it resembled a 'rock concert'...where do you attend your rock concerts?!!! nothing like. nothing like even an Osmond concert, certainly not here in the UK,let me tell you. And if President Monson attended the Concert on Friday, attended MSW on Sunday, made a presentation to the family and then, along with the Choir, sang to them, I'm sure it was appropriate enough for the rest of us to watch.

to Embarrased: at least get it right.
it's D-O-N-N-Y.

Linda from L.V., Nv. | 11:56 a.m. July 30, 2008

What a positive missionary tool for those that watched who are not a member of our Thuch of Jesus Chris of Later-Day Saints yet. The Osmond's are a perfect example of our meaning of family and our belief of Jesus Christ. I am a convert and learning so much every day to be a better person.
I thank my Heavenly Faterh every day for my many blessing He provides for me.
I simply love the TC and have severl ov their cd's. Can't go wrong with listening to theri music any time or any place.

Felicity | 12:34 p.m. July 30, 2008

I have been an Osmond fan since "One Bad Apple" was released. I am a Christian, but not of the Mormon faith, and I have admired the fact that the Osmonds have been able to maintain to the best of their abilities their faith, family values, and integrity in a business where very few do. I am sorry that there are always people who will make negative comments about the Osmonds, I have never understood why but to each their own. To the Osmonds I say ignore them; to the church I say the Osmonds are a wonderful testament to your church and you should be proud of them. You were right to include them in your celebration. I hope there will be a CD and or a DVD, the event was beautiful.

Anonymous | 9:00 p.m. July 30, 2008

This family has not changed a bit with all the fame, honor, money, honor they have been so abundantly showered with. Like their God who change not, they have been immeasurably blessed and doubly given more years to share,give, and bless the lives of people through the talents they have been blessed with.

Joan from Alaska | 9:58 p.m. July 30, 2008

Please, oh please, make a CD that has all the guys singing on it. Your harmony is better now than ever, You guys make me so proud....You have helped so many with the positive image you have portrayed of Mormons. My little non-member grandkids have grown up with "Joseph and the Technicolor DreamCoat" video, and think Donnie is great. Thanks for all you do to live your religion. You do us proud, Osmond family!

Kate | 4:12 a.m. July 31, 2008

I hope the Osmond's stay around for another 50 years. They don't need to stop touring. Just take it easy and tour when you can. AND keep recording as a family and individually. They need to stop acting so old. They are younger than many great rock stars that are still touring and recording. I know they were hit hard with business and personal losses BUT they are still young and can still do many of the things they might have missed out on or lost. Health issues can be addressed as needed but for goodness sakes, you have been given a great gift. Keep going and stay optimistic. You are young, NOT old! Have a second childhood and a second and third chance at the careers you want to have. When God comes calling 50 years from now, go kicking and screaming. Life is a do over. Not crazy about the first 50 years? Make the next 50 better! Now take a deep breath, smile, and begin.
We love you and will wish you the best.
Do what YOU want and we will respect your wishes.
Let us know on your site what you choose. We'll listen.
God bless

generationconcerned | 6:19 a.m. July 31, 2008

I was so disappointed in the concert production with the Osmond family. This yearly celebration was suppose to be about a celebration of those pioneers that sacrificed to come to Utah on that July day so long ago and not a personal showbiz families performanance! I was shocked at the disrespect given in the selection of songs performed during what was suppose to be a LDS Pioneer celebration! It was performed in bad taste, and was totally dominated with personal Osmond agenda with a little bit of sprinkled Choir music. A total waste as well as a disrespectful production! Many in our long generation pioneer family were EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED.

Linda | 7:35 a.m. July 31, 2008

I just wish their "World Tour" would have included more cities in the United States-many fans would have thoroughly enjoyed seeing their "last" performance as a family on stage - Not everyone can make it out to Las Vegas for a show-darn!
Best wishes to the Osmond Family for a continued bright future! I've been a fan since 1971 and am inspired by their family values and music!

Jeremy | 2:09 p.m. July 31, 2008

I personally can see both sides of the issues. I agree that the concert was entertaining and uplifting. But at the same time, it did feel a bit uncomfortable and different. Not to criticize the Church or Church leaders, but if felt like a timing issue, as mentioned before: a novel idea for any other time of the year BESIDES Pioneer Day. Here's my take on a better Pioneer Day event: Take the same orchestrations of this recent concert(which were excellent, by the way), add them to the traditional songs, couple it with the powerful voices of the Choir, and then maybe invite a different kind of celebrity singer, one with an especially moving voice; Josh Groban or Celine Dion, for example. Or maybe even keep Donny or Marie around, but not have them be as flashy or showy: that could be reserved for a another time, another night, another concert.

CJ in Missouri | 4:29 p.m. July 31, 2008

First off I must say how very much I enjoyed the concert! Having been a lifelong Osmond fan -- since the Andy Williams days -- I never tire of them. Several have mentioned that The Osmonds were their "first missionaries". The same is true for me, as well as for countless others. Many years ago, they were "set apart" to serve a "mission" on the world stage and have done so throughout their entire career. That career is, sadly, coming to an apparent end for some. Others will continue to perform in other capacities. But this was an opportunity to honor their lifelong service of our Lord, and I am grate for the Church having made the decision to do so. Yes, it may have been different from the "traditional" Pioneer Day commerations. But the Osmonds have been pioneers of a different sort. Just ask many of those who are in the Church because of their influence, and those who have careers in music because they paved the way for LDS performing families. Thank you Osmond Family! You ARE the best!!

Karen | 8:09 a.m. Aug. 1, 2008

I am Kate's sister. She wrote above. I agree with the people that maybe the Osmond's belonged on a different day BUT the concert is over and they did great. They are a really unique family with big hearts and strong set of high moral values. The LDS are very lucky to have them as members and reps for the church. I wish the whole country had such great men and women as the Osmond family. What a great country this would be to have such honesty and goodness all over the land. And maybe the Osmond's were the best choice for Pioneer Day. They showed what hard work and good hearts can accomplish and how many lives you can touch. Just like our Pioneers! We love the Osmond's and most of all wish them happiness. I agree with my sister. Whatever they choose to do, we'll support them.
To the Osmond's: We pray for your health and happiness. God bless you all and take care. If any of our "fan craziness" through the years caused you any pain, we are truly sorry. Forgive us. We wouldn't hurt you for the world.
Thank you for all you gave us.

M. C. Morrise | 9:20 p.m. Aug. 1, 2008

I saw the Pioneer Day concert re-aired online today at BYUtv, which was the best part of my pre-senior-year summer vacation. My family listens to lots of Osmond Family and even more Tabernacle Choir. I was so glad I was able to watch the concert, even though my family wasn't able to get tickets. I wish there was more of this stuff for people to get exposed to: even though most of the youth at my high school are LDS, they haven't had the same amount of culture exposure, and it's really sad to see them obsess over a certain split-personality singer and a certain mediocre teen musical series - and so much other shallow music! - when there is REAL entertainment out in the world. Of course, my father is my school's music director and I have lots of musical involvement in school and out, so I shouldn't contrast myself against other people. I guess I'm just swimming against the cultural current of my age group, but someone has to stand up for what they believe, don't they? Osmond Family: I love you guys! Keep singing! I hope (and pray more) for a CD/DVD release of this concert.

Sharon/Las Vegas | 8:52 p.m. Aug. 2, 2008

The world can stand much more of this GRAET entertainment!! I am greatful to The Osmond Family and the way they pay tribute to the family unit. Our young adult children love there music. They are wonderful examples and The Osmonds share a lot of love for those they come in contact with. Keep Singing! You're the best. :)

TOsmond | 2:39 a.m. Aug. 3, 2008

My name is Troy, 5th son of Merrill Osmond, one of the Osmond Brothers. As I've read all of the comments on this page, I just wanted to thank all of you who said positive words regarding my family. I truly appreciate them and I know my family would as well. Being to the concert friday, saturday and sunday, I was humbled to see the good affect my family has had on so many.

To all of those with negative comments, I'm sorryyou fell the way you do. I really am. As I read your words, I couldn't help but smile because you don't know all of the details and it saddens me that people judge and jump to conclusions so quickly. All I can say is that I love my family and am so proud of them. I'm so grateful for not only their examples to me, but their examples to millions around the world and I'm thankful that they've been able to help so many, YOUNG and old.
God bless

Debbie, new york | 1:53 p.m. Aug. 3, 2008

I wish that people would just be thankful that they had the opportunity to attend this concert and any other shows they have attended, some of us only get to see the brothers through utube and dvds and television when we can, so please do not complain, thank GOD that he put you at a show, I would trade places with some of you in a minutes time. I love the Osmonds, always have, always will, but will never get to see them, be thankful

Kate and Karen | 3:14 p.m. Aug. 3, 2008

When you hear the name "Osmond" what's the first thing that comes to mind?
Wholesomeness?
Clean cut?
Goodness?
God?
Honesty?
Hard work?
Respectful?
All American?
Talented?
Gee, if only the rest of us were so blessed and lucky to be regarded so highly!
Their legacy will be great and their name will always be respected and admired.
Can you imagine how many lives they have touched and saved?
The Osmond's are a gift from God to the world.
We thank Him for that.

To the Osmond Family and to you, Troy,
What we were trying to say is all of us fans love you dearly and will hold you in our hearts forever.
When we see you hurting, we hurt.
We have seen over the past decade is that a lot of pain happened to all of you and the realization cuts like a knife.
We didn't know that by having millions of fans that we (fans) could cause you pain. We can only imagine what you had to endure and missed out on.
We didn't know being famous could hurt.
ALL your fans want you to enjoy life, be young, and be happy.
Peace and Love,
God bless,

Debbie in Idaho | 10:03 p.m. Aug. 4, 2008

To TOsmond - Is there a website where we can read about each of the Osmonds families? I would love to know how many children Merrill has! All boys? All girls? What is the age range of them all? How many grandchildren do they each have now? Is there a family picture of each one with their families? We don't know much about you all & would love to know how you all are!

The concert was amazing! Wouldn't have missed it for anything! I was thrilled to get my name drawn for the tickets! Didn't really think I had a chance either! They have never disappointed & I know that they put their hearts & souls into their performances! May we all remember the true showmanship they always show & how they stay true to their values! Never have to worry about hearing garbage from them! God Bless!

Anonymous | 5:51 p.m. Aug. 5, 2008

I agree with those who said this should have been a concert in memory of our pioneers as it was for July 24th, the day the pioneers entered the valley & all they sacrificed for ours & the gospel's sake. The Osmonds being a pioneering family has nothing to do with our pioneer ancestors & all they sacrificed. I feel the Osmonds should have had their concert on a different night so true honor could be paid to our pioneer ancestors.

And there's nothing wrong with some expressing disappointment as we are entitled to express our feelings just as much as those who loved the concert...just because we feel differently about it doesn't mean we can't say so or that because we do so, it's negative. It's not negative but just a different view.

tigger | 1:48 p.m. Aug. 6, 2008

I, too, feel the concert's Pioneer theme should have been honored - it was titled Pioneer Commemoration & so was expecting to hear songs, etc. about those who suffered so much in coming to & settling this valley. I enjoy hearing the Osmonds perform but I feel they should have honored the Pioneer theme, also or held their performance a different night.

Debbie in Idaho | 5:42 p.m. Aug. 13, 2008

I guess the fact that the Prophet & the 12 apostles approved the event doesn't change the minds of those of you who are critical of this event. Nothing is done without the approval of our leaders. If they felt it was worthy of doing, then so be it! Did anyone complain about the Brett Family Singers who performed for the 24th of July celebration in 2006? If you complainers were disappointed, I'm sorry. You should have let someone who would really enjoy seeing the Osmond Family have your tickets! Those of us who are Osmond fans wanted MORE! We didn't get nearly what we would have wanted to see. They did honor the pioneers, the songs were sung that honored them. This is an amazing family who are an awesome example of the gospel & how to live your life!! They live what they believe & it shows! We are so blessed as a church to have the example of the Osmond Family! May they continue to serve the church well as they have for 50 years!

tigger | 11:54 a.m. Aug. 15, 2008

Just because I wish it would have been more pioneer oriented or am voicing a different opinion than you doesn't mean I'm being critical but just means I feel differently than you. I'm sure the prophet & the Twelve did approve it. I didn't say it was an inappropriate/unworthy concert that shouldn't have been held in the conference center but just wish there could have been a concert specfically geared towards our pioneer ancestors.

And could be that I & others feel you're criticial of others views because they don't agree with yours.

Debbie in Idaho | 7:15 p.m. Aug. 16, 2008

Tigger - not in the least! I respect everyone's opinion. I just think that the Osmonds are getting a bad rap here & feel that they deserve the respect that they have earned. I have no problem with people having their own views - that is what makes this country so great, we all have that right! I just feel that knowing who the Osmonds are, they performed as most of their fans expected they would. People who know them should have know the music that was going to be performed. As I stated, the Brett Family performed a few years back & I don't recall anyone being critical of them & they sing a variety of songs. I just think people are being too critical of the event. It was awesome! I am sorry that so many were disappointed, but I think it was well worth the trip & wanted more!

Anonymous | 8:45 a.m. Nov. 25, 2008

As always-a great musical family and what a great missionary tool to introduce to the world. This family has always set an example of "living the gospel". Proud to be a life long fan of the Osmonds. This family is a great example of "families for ever".

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11 photos

Tom Smart, Deseret News

The Osmond family performs as special guests with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Orchestra at Temple Square at the Pioneer Day Commemoration Concert in Salt Lake City Friday.

Gallery (11 photos)