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Choir's Jessop is resigning

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Dave | 1:14 a.m. March 5, 2008

WOW!

Bob | 1:47 a.m. March 5, 2008

How sad that Brother Jessop is leaving the choir. In my humble opinion, he has taken the choir to heights that they have never before achieved.

There have been times during General Conference when my wife and I have just looked at each other with tears in our eyes and said, "WOW".

Best wishes to him and his family for the years ahead.

Good luck | 4:03 a.m. March 5, 2008

Never had the slightest bit of interest in the MoTab. But friends in the choir business tell me Craig's a good guy. So good luck to you, Craig.

Comments continue below

Chris | 5:06 a.m. March 5, 2008

Jobs like this take lots of time. He is not getting younger. Perhaps he wants to spend more time with his family?

John | 5:14 a.m. March 5, 2008

Thank you for your great years of service.

elviejo | 6:30 a.m. March 5, 2008

If I were the "bretheren" I wouln't tolerate this resignation. I would call him to the First Quorum of the Seventy and give him the assignment to direct the choir. The best to you and your family bro. Jessop

Bjarne Christensen | 6:33 a.m. March 5, 2008

Is it a coincidence that Jessup resigns right after Gordon B. Hinckley's passing? In retrospect, it was doubtful the new leadership would allow Jessup the free hand that President Hinckley did. It's a sad day for music and the arts.

Michael, Ireland | 7:18 a.m. March 5, 2008

I just wanted to add my expression of shock and sadness at the news of Craig Jessop's resignation. Along with, I'm sure, fans all around the world I have marvelled at the Choir's new heights of musicality, precision and expression under his leadership. I know that the Choir is a massive team organisation and effort, but I would like to record and convey my special, heartfelt thanks to Craig Jessop. Every possible good wish for the future.

Former choir singer | 7:20 a.m. March 5, 2008

A great leader, musician, full of charisma, spiritual and fun. It is no wonder choir members love him. Good luck, Craig!

Anonymous | 7:39 a.m. March 5, 2008

Brother Jessup:

We wish you the very best and thank you for your years of service to us, the regular membership of the Church. You brought us to our knees through the Spirit you brought to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Many of us do not live in SLC and want you to know of our deepest thanks for all you have done.

Pamela K

S.L. Flint | 7:47 a.m. March 5, 2008

I have know Craig since our days at Stanford together. He is a remarkable person in addtional to a a great talent in the music world.

His quiet service 'outside' of music is even more impressive - but most will never no of his great service in other areas.

I wish him and his family the very best.

A | 7:54 a.m. March 5, 2008

I think Bjarne has no concept of how the church works.

Good luck to you Mr Jessup. May you be blessed for your service.

LWortley | 7:52 a.m. March 5, 2008

Well Done Craig!!!!!! We couldn't be more prouder of you and what you have done with the Choir. We have been so privileged to have you part of our community for the last 13 years. We are happy for you and your family and good luck!

Larry Beck | 8:07 a.m. March 5, 2008

When President Hinckley passed away, people commented on what was his greatest legacy. Some say temples, some say the PEF, but in my opinion, what he's done to build up the Choir into a world class organization is his crowning achievement. And it couldn't have be done without Brother Jessop and Brother Wilberg. The Choir will sing on, a new director will be named, and the Choir will bring more good will for the Church than just about anything else, but you will be missed, Brother Jessop. Your Shepherd will supply your need.

Julie densham | 8:11 a.m. March 5, 2008

Just wanted to thank yoou for all your service to the Choir and to all who enjoy the music and spoken word

Choir Friend | 8:17 a.m. March 5, 2008

I know it's tempting to draw the connection B. Christensen has made; he is not the only one who will jump to such a conclusion. But knowing of Brother Jessop's strong support for Church leadership and the spirituality with which he approached his duties, I am sure he would have been willing to move in any direction his Church leaders asked. Whatever personal crisis may have precipitated this decision, I very much doubt it was a conflict with his leaders.

Jim | 8:30 a.m. March 5, 2008

It's sad to see Craig retire. Since their involvement, Criag and Mack Wilberg have raised the level of professionalism and quality of music and performance by the Choir and Orchestra. Each CD and concert is better than the last. I know it will only get better. I wish him well.

Mimi | 8:46 a.m. March 5, 2008

A great loss to the Choir and those who love it. There must be compelling reasons for Brother Jessop to make what surely was a difficult choice, and I wish him the very best and every blessing needed for his and his family's future.

Hangman | 8:42 a.m. March 5, 2008

Thank you Brother Jessop and Brother Wilberg for bringing in great arrangements for the church! It is a great thing to have new 'Hymns' and music that uplifts. Good Luck Brother Jessop and may your health be good and allow you to spend time with your family and your other interests.

Linda | 8:48 a.m. March 5, 2008

Bro Jessop your are a wonderful and inspirational leader and I am grateful for the music. May God bless you and your family and may you continue to enjoy what you do.

Spanky | 8:48 a.m. March 5, 2008

I went to junior high at Providence and South Cache with Craig, and high school with Craig at Sky View. Not being LDS, I haven't followed the Tabernacle Choir, but I can tell you this. Craig has always been a great person from the time he was a kid. I can't remember anyone ever having a bad word to say about him. A wonderful musical talent, and an exceptional, very good person.

Gratitude | 8:44 a.m. March 5, 2008

I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to be in several choirs under his direction. He is a wonderful person, and I wish him much luck for whatever his endeavors may be for the rest of his life.

Peter Danzig | 8:45 a.m. March 5, 2008

Craig Jessop was the heart and soul of what made the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square beautiful. His gracious and compassionate heart was housed in a person who made every individual he encountered feel valued and loved. He was a true leader who motivated those under his baton to greater heights not through fear as is so often the case, but because they loved him. He is one the finest conductors I have ever worked under, able to inspire not only through his skills, knowledge, and encouragement but also by his quiet example of faith, dedication and love. Wherever he goes, people will be blessed.

He will.... | 8:59 a.m. March 5, 2008

be greatly missed and the best of luck to him and his family. I do hope though that the term "Interim" is just a formality in support of Wilberg...

Sybil Perks | 9:03 a.m. March 5, 2008

I totally agree with Peter Danzig. Craig Jessop has been an inspiration to me and fellow South Africans since he was first appointed Associate Director. Thank you for the most memorable three years of singing in person with the choir under your baton. May you be abundantly blessed for the work done and for whatever lies ahead.

Brainwrap | 9:28 a.m. March 5, 2008

If the DesNews does a followup article about this fine musician, I hope that his very impressive background and experience will be delineated. More than a few people will be surprised.

Daivd G. | 9:39 a.m. March 5, 2008

Why? I just can't believe this! I have often worried about the future of the choir and orchestra in a post-Jessop era. I hope it is as bright as was the past few years. I am so dissappointed! Good luck Craig. But why?

Alan | 9:50 a.m. March 5, 2008

Craig Jessop's departure will be a great loss. Of all of his accomplishments as director, I think his talent for presenting music that is "listenable" and "approachable" will be remembered as his most important contribution. Under his direction the choir's music drew in listeners of all faiths who simply appreciate beautiful music. The choir has reached new heights of musicianship under his baton, and has earned the love of the world. I hope that his successor will have the same sensitivity for appealing to the masses rather than a narrow niche of classical music devotees. Craig--all the best to you; you'll be greatly missed.

From Wikipedia | 10:00 a.m. March 5, 2008

A native of Millville, Utah, Jessop has been a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to which the choir is affiliated. He was a student of Robert Shaw and received his B. A. from Utah State University, M. A. from Brigham Young University and Doctorate of Musical Arts from Stanford University.

He has been the director of the National High School Choir Festival for the four years of its existence. The event, held at New York's Carnegie Hall, auditions schools from around the country to inspire and enable young singers in learning great works of music and performing with renowned musicians from around the world.

Craig Jessop retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the United States Air Force where, among other assignments, he conducted the USAF Singing Sergeants for seven years. He has also spent seven years as a baritone with the Robert Shaw Festival Singers and performed in the choirs of Helmuth Rilling and John Rutter.

Stunned | 10:01 a.m. March 5, 2008

I was stunned by the abruptness of this announcement.
Why would he have to suddenly resign? Wouldn't he have at least stayed on through the Choir's upcoming Easter concert and General Conference (or was the decision not really his)?
Good luck and best wishes to you Craig. You are without question the face and the soul of the Choir and will be missed.

I hope | 10:08 a.m. March 5, 2008

The Choir invites him as a guest soloist - very few baritones can equal his voice - and too few have heard it since his college days.

Anonymous | 10:22 a.m. March 5, 2008

Thank you brother Jessop, we watch you every Sunday with Music and the spoken word. How spiritual and uplifting we feel from the Choir and your service.Heather Thompson North Shields, England

Greater things in store... | 10:18 a.m. March 5, 2008

Never fear people, Craig has even greater things in store for him. What some people interpret as a loss is often just a welcome transition to a greater opportunity. Just wait a while and all of us will see this principle manifest as far as Dr. Jessop is concerned. Also, the very same inspiration in play that called Craig to his position will be manifest with his successor!

Anonymous | 10:25 a.m. March 5, 2008

Several years ago, I brought Charles Decker (town historian for Afton, New York --South Bainbridge when Joseph Smith was there) to SLC. He had a marvelous time here, meeting various Church Authorities even President Hinckley, but the highlight of it all was when Bro. Jessup invited him to sing with the choir during one of the Thursday night rehersals! Today in Afton, Charles proudly displays to visitors a picture display of himself singing with the choir. First losing President Hinckley and now Craig Jessop, This has been a tough month. God bless you Craig Jessop--You've been incredible! Christopher Jones-Newport Beach, California

suzyk | 10:33 a.m. March 5, 2008

Craig Jessop in my opinion has reached great heights with the Tabernacle Choir under his direction. I've loved watching him direct..he does it with such fervor. May the Lord's choicest blessings be with you and your family. You have served the Lord well.

Billy Bob | 10:47 a.m. March 5, 2008

Come on people, he was really good at what he did and does, and good luck to him for sure, but he can be replaced as can all of us....wish him the best and lets get on with the next concert. Who can't be replaced? I know I certainly can and everyone that I know. Missed? yes..but not the end of the choir and it's great music. If you think otherwise, I have some special land for sale.(near some swamps)

Scott | 10:51 a.m. March 5, 2008

My first thought was he has received a calling that will conflict with directing the choir. There are still a few Mission Presidents that are yet to be determined, the Curitiba Brazil Temple will be dedicated in June and needs a President, or perhaps as a Seventy. Also there is a vacancy in the 12

sb | 11:09 a.m. March 5, 2008

Thank you Bro. Jessop for the great work you have done. Best wishes to you and your family.

Alaskan Saint | 11:19 a.m. March 5, 2008

I agree with "Greater things..." Just wait a little longer and you will witness how the Lord's hand is in all things...(think about it!)

Choir Fan | 11:18 a.m. March 5, 2008

I don't understand the background of this choir director change situation, however, after 10 years if would be logical to see a change, since it would be a real grinder and a strain on family life. Best of luck Craig, we have enjoyed immensely your leadership of the choir and the wonderful music it has provided.

GHL | 11:20 a.m. March 5, 2008

Leigh Harline is my mother's uncle. He is not well known but he received 11 Oscar nominations in his lifetime aa a composer of film scores. His most recognized piece is the Oscar winning song from the Disney classic Pinocchio; "When You Wish Upon a Star" which became the theme song for the entire Disney organization. The two surviving daughters of Leigh Harline, who are not members of the church, met Craig Jessop when they were in town from California after a choir broadcast. He told them: "when you are in town again, give me a few weeks notice and we (the choir in broadcast) will sing your father's song". Well, my mother set that up, there were a hundred Harlines in the Conference Center that Sunday morning. The Choir was perfection. The Spoken Word focused on the lessons that can be drawn from that childhood story Pinocchio. It had a moving impact on the daughters of Leigh Harline who will never see the Church the same way again. Only Craig Jessop would have thought to do such a meaningful tribute to the two non-LDS daughters of the man who also donated the score for "Man's Search for Happiness".

wjgram | 11:51 a.m. March 5, 2008

I just want add my thanks to Bro Jessop for his service to the Choir. I agree that he directed the choir with much fervor. I loved watching him direct the choir, and I enjoyed listening to Music & the Spoken Word, and the specials they did with some celebreties. I still remember when he gave an award to a sister who was the oldest former choir member.

He is a great director who is full of energy, and now he will use his talents elsewhere. Good luck to him and his family wherever they go now.

Texas | 11:58 a.m. March 5, 2008

This was not unexpected to the Lord. The problem for the Bretheren and Mac is to find the person that was prepared to step in.

Jessop was there when we needed him. Someone else is too.

Disappointed | 12:19 p.m. March 5, 2008

Too bad Lawrence Welk died. He could have added dancing to more fully utilize the capability of the orchestra.

carolyne bamforth in winnipeg ca | 12:38 p.m. March 5, 2008

thank you Brother Jessop for your years of service to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Conferences will not be the same without you conducting our choir. May you enjoy retirement with your beautiful wife and children.

Just Regular | 12:40 p.m. March 5, 2008

I'm just a regular person that was impressed by the tremendous love and kindness demonstrated by Craig Jessop as he served and lifted others. On behalf of the regular people, we just want to tell you that we love you Craig and that we are praying for you.

Wally Greenfield | 12:42 p.m. March 5, 2008

Everytime I saw Craig leading the Choir, I was looking at a friend. Good Luck Craig!

Phil Lowry | 1:10 p.m. March 5, 2008

When I began as a charter member of the Orchestra at Temple Square, Craig was one of those who inspired me and encouraged me. After a brief hiatus on active duty with the Army, he saw me playing again and came up to embrace me, welcoming me back. Those of you who know how hard he worked on the podium will realize this was not a "dry" experience. ;-) I was astonished and joyful. He was like a father to me. Craig, be well, and God bless.

LindaL | 1:23 p.m. March 5, 2008

Well done thou good and faithful servant. God bless you and your family.

Ronald A. Young | 1:29 p.m. March 5, 2008

Seek ye first the best things. In Music that would be the Mormon Choir. It is the only link to Mormonism and the Gospel that they ever experience. No matter what they may think of Mormons the Choir Music is always complamented. When Mitt Romney rescued the Debocle that was going to be the Winter Games. I Church being under agrement to the Liberal Media not to Prosolite. The Choir was able to get the message accross. They have always done well. I used to watch each Conference to see how many Black Members where in the Choir. When I read up on what it took to get in the Choir, I stopped doing that. The Choir is just an amazing group of people. Known the World Over and the only Religious or Classical Music that some people hear. When they perform with Secular Performers they reach far more people. The people they perform with are always inspired to give their best performance. So even the Has Bens and Decades Old Groups sound refreashed and Great. I have never sen a poo performance by the Choir. My Ohana wishes the Director the very best. Mahalo.

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