Deseret News | Tabernacle Choir Director Jessop resigns

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Tabernacle Choir Director Jessop resigns

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Mack | 10:45 p.m. March 4, 2008

Very interesting that he would resign. It shows the high positions may not be all that they are cracked up to be. I was suprised that he would quit like this only one month before Conference. Must have had tremendous pressure from the Wife and kids to be home.

Mike Hendriksen | 10:54 p.m. March 4, 2008

This was indeed a shock for choir members. As a member of the choir for over 10 years I have long respected Dr. Jessop's leadership and vision as well as his musical expertise and energy. How we love him! We will miss his guidance, his vision, and his direction. I wish him great blessings with family and career, with the hope our paths will cross again many times in the future.

bots ringer | 10:51 p.m. March 4, 2008

As a member of the Tabernacle Choir organization, I have had an opportunity to see Brother Jessop up close in action. He was a musical genius and a spiritual giant and will be missed by all of us!

Thanks, Craig!

Comments continue below

Birdman | 10:57 p.m. March 4, 2008

Craig, you have been a great blessing to all of us. What energy and talent you have brought to your work. We will all miss you. The choir and orchestra has reached new heights under your able direction. Your moving musical performances have deeply touched our souls--very bit as much as powerful sermons. You've served well.

Erin | 11:07 p.m. March 4, 2008

He is an amazing man and was the right man for the job. I wonder who will be able to handle the PR machine now that he's stepping down? Dr. Wilberg is not enamored of the spotlight (understatement).

Choir Member | 11:10 p.m. March 4, 2008

Craig Jessop is one of the greatest men that I have ever known. I feel lucky to have been associated with the choir while he was the director. Tonight's announcement was certainly a shock to all those in the room. We will miss his energy, dedication, and constant positive attitude. I hope to work with him again someday.

Cougar | 11:10 p.m. March 4, 2008

NOOOOOOO!!!! Mack Wilberg is a brilliant composer, but Craig Jessop is who made the choir what it is today! The way that he seemingly caressed amazing sound out of the choir was absolutely incredible--I will miss him greatly.

Jake | 11:11 p.m. March 4, 2008

Mack, you must be clairvoiant to be able to know what caused Jessop to resign. You should be a mult-millionaire by morning, using your powers(?).

howard | 11:15 p.m. March 4, 2008

What a shock. He was one of the finest choir
directors. I hope that he was treated fairley
by the leaders of the choir. The church and the
country needs people like him I wish him well.

Craig McAllister | 11:27 p.m. March 4, 2008

As Brigham Young said of Joseph Smith - I want to jump up and shout for joy every time I think that I knew Craig Jessop in this life. I have known him since we were on a mission together in England 38 years ago and look forward to the day that we can share a room at the rest home together and reminisce in awe and wonder about our days together in the tabernacle choir.

Observer | 11:39 p.m. March 4, 2008

Craig Jessop is charismatic, talented, an adroit & articulate public speaker and the quintessential choral conductor. He is the embodiment of great musicianship and the essense that encompasses the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

However, if this observer was to compares the richly deserved and ebullient praise John Longhurst received for several months after his retirement was announced to the abrupt resignation of Craig Jessop only one week after President Thomas Monson attended a weekly choir broadcast in the Tabernacle where Craig Jessop was conducting, one can only wonder whose toes he stepped on......

"Shawilli" | 11:41 p.m. March 4, 2008

I can only say how sorry I am to see Craig leave the helm of the choir,I will miss him greatly and only wish him happiness and success in whatever in life he chooses to pursue. I am greatful for his leadership of what I along with countless millions of fans of the Tab Choir to be the finest Choir in the world.
Shaun Williams
Phoenix, Az

Choir Member | 11:57 p.m. March 4, 2008

Brother Craig Jessop touched my heart and soul by his musical and spiritual guidance. His love for the Gospel of Jesus Christ, his testimony of the Savior, his sustaining of the Brethern, and his love of the gift of music will always be a JOY in my life. His appreciation for Brother Wilberg and their perfect blending of musical genius was inspiring. He has made the miracle of the Tabernacle Choir a reality in my life. I shall forever be grateful to him and Brother Wilberg for their great sacrifices to serve the Choir. Brother Jessop, may God bless you in all you do - you have truly blessed my life more than mere words can ever say. God be with you 'til we meet again.

kathleen adams | 12:18 a.m. March 5, 2008

Thank you so very much, Brother Jessop for your wonderful contribution to the heart and soul of the world. You have touched the hearts of so many with your interpretations of great music. Best wishes for your future endeavors. We love you very much.

Timely Job | 12:19 a.m. March 5, 2008

The tabby choirs schedule is a killer. Not only the pratice schedule but the travel. And this is only what the choir members go through.
Let him be. Hey! Maybe he was given a calling and he can no longer be the director.... nah...
But the time constraints are long. If I have it correct, choir members are only allowed 5 years. he's been at it for 13 years.

Kendo | 12:50 a.m. March 5, 2008

Brilliant director. Let's appreciate and thank him not enter into speculation about his resignatio-no good will come of that!
I think the choir will go forward as it has consistently and will be directed in future with the same love as in the past.
God bless Brother Jessop for enduring those years of leadership. For the speculative souls amongst us, 13 years is a long time to spend in a leadership position, have you spent that time in a leadership position? Perhaps we forget the sacrifice of sustaining someone for that length of service?

Bass in Choir | 1:30 a.m. March 5, 2008

Craig, we love you. Truly love is the right word. I have said it many times, to others in the choir,..."Craig is a great conductor, but an even greater spiritual leader." I have cherished every metaphor and similie given during rehursals. Your spiritual insight and testimony made you the director that we all love to follow. You and Mack were an unbeatable team. It is hard to imagine how we will carry on without you. Sunday morning, I expect an extra 360 names on the prayer roll and they will all say lovingly, "Craig Jessop". God bless you and your wonderful family. We have stollen you from them for long enough. Enjoy you grandkids and sweet wife. Again....we all love you.

Rob G - Bass 97 | 2:04 a.m. March 5, 2008

Brother Jessop, we love you and we will miss you dearly. Whatever the reasons behind this decision, we wish you tremendous joy. It gives me great pleasure to think of all of the time you'll now have with your loving wife and family.

I applaud your decision to not elaborate tonight, thereby avoiding a mob of protest while the emotions were high and we were all in shock. We will all need some time for the news to sink in before we can think clearly about it. It would not have been fair to you to be faced with a barrage of questions during what was, I'm sure, one of the more difficult moments in your life.

I expect that when the time is right and we have all come to terms with this momentous change, we might be allowed further insight into its motivation. If not, please know that we will always love and sustain you. We will never be able to replace you. Carry our gratitude with you along your next journey. God bless you.

One who wanted to be a choir mem | 2:13 a.m. March 5, 2008

Oh, I am so disappointed!! Bro. Jessop is truly a genius and did so much for our wonderful Tabernacle Choir - I am speechless and hope that Bro. Wilberg can stay and continue to be the fantastic writer, arranger and director that he is - Good luck to Craig Jessop - wish there could be a way for him to reconsider!! From a forever fan of the choir......

Anonymous | 3:27 a.m. March 5, 2008

Long time Fan of the tabernacle choir and Englsih at that,but feel sure that Brother Jessop done the right thing he will be missed, but has prayed and listen to the Lord, Families are important too, enjoy this time Brother Jessop, bless you for all you have done for music and for the church

Boyd J. Hale | 5:30 a.m. March 5, 2008

What a great example of someone great, truly great in what has been accomplished, to make time with family finally come first. How great that someone can see that you only take your family with you, not the chior.

A Viewer | 6:02 a.m. March 5, 2008

Thank you. I enjoyed everyone of your Sunday Morning Broadcasts. You challenged the chior and orchestra to do new works and in doing so produced better broadcasts. There is no doubt this resulted in a new audience and broader viewership. It was a pleasure to be one of those new, regular Sunday Morning listeners.

Lowell Steele | 5:57 a.m. March 5, 2008

As many have noted, Craig Jessop is one of those people you just feel grateful to have had the opportunity to rubb shoulders with. He directed our little Footprints of Freedom Air Force ROTC group in BYU's Music Department in the mid '70s. We could all tell back then that he had a rare talent, but he's also one of those "salt of the earth" type men: humble, kind, unassuming, genuinely interested in each individual. To this day, when we run into each other he continues to show that genuine interest.

To the 13 years as director and assistant director, don't forget to add his years as choir member and soloist. He's earned the privilege to move on. Best wishes Craig and many thanks for the multiple ways you've blessed so many lives.

Alan | 6:24 a.m. March 5, 2008

"Observer," what a silly thing to say. Whose toes got stepped on? Probably only yours. There is nothing wrong with Jessop's resignation, and the only one singing a sour note about it is you. My family had a chance encounter with President Monson about two years ago in a Salt Lake restaurant, and he couldn't have been nicer. We didn't approach him ... he came to US and greeted us warmly. He's not the type to give or take offense easily, and that goes likewise for Craig Jessop.

You might consider stepping back, letting people make their own decisions and live their own lives, and speculate about more important things ... like why certain people speculate about such ridiculous things.

Tom in South Carolina | 6:39 a.m. March 5, 2008

Craig Jessop was the most intense director I ever sang under. I was always exhausted after his rehearsals. I sang in the choir 10 years (6 with Ottley, 4 with Jessop), and after Craig took over the schedule of the Choir became just as intense (more rehearsals). It will be interesting to see if Mack is called to be the MD, as he shuns the spotlight so much. Good luck Craig - enjoy the time with your family!!

Scott Woodbury - B24 | 7:46 a.m. March 5, 2008

Craig, Thanks for you love, musicality, spirituality, friendship and enthusiasm! We will miss you! When I retired you mentioned you have a special room "all picked out for me" in the "Rallantando Rest Home!" I just hope it's right next to yours! God be with you Craig!

david combs | 8:26 a.m. March 5, 2008

Craig, you will be missed. I retired from the choir in 2002 after about 20 years. I still remember when Craig, as the director of the singing sergents, directed the choir in "holy radiant light", and it was wonderful to look into his eyes and see his tesimony of the Savior. I had the strongest impression at that moment, that one day he would be the director of the Tab Choir. He did not disappoint. What a wonderful, warm, loving human being. My neighbor said she knew him in high school and he was just the same way then, -caring and loving. so much so, that everyone called him,"Bishop" back in high school. Wherever he goes and whatever he does, I am confident he will serve well and love unconditionally. Thanks for you loving service.

Steve Wilson | 8:31 a.m. March 5, 2008

The years of service Craig Jessop gave to the MTC will go down as the most uplifting, joyfull and spiritual journey the choir has enjoyed. I cant remember a Choir director that has shown the kind of enthusiasm and love of music the way Craig has. I know he will be sorely missed. I just hope whoever takes the helm for the choir can keep up the tradition.

Franz | 8:31 a.m. March 5, 2008

I too have been touched by the great service rendered by Bro. Jessop. He will be deeply missed. I have been pleased at the turn out of so many CDs in the last few years.
The truth is that the choir just seems to continue to get better and better. I was sad to see Jerold Ottley retire, but then Craig Jessop came; it got better. Who knows but what it will continue to get better. All this speculation is just pointless and damaging.

In the choirs of heaven... | 8:37 a.m. March 5, 2008

In the next life as we sing in the choirs of heaven, when our fellow choir members ask us who the Tabernacle Choir director was during our earthly sojourn and we say "It was Craig Jessop", a hush will spread throughout the choir in reverence to the opportunity we had and........Hey, just kidding....I was alluding to the letter that was read over the pulphit last Sunday. Let's go easy with the over abundant praise for dear Craig, even though he did a great job.....Craig and the Choir will be just fine. Life goes on....sometimes even better than before.

Mindy | 8:39 a.m. March 5, 2008

Bro. Jessop, you are a musical genius and I am surprised that you are retiring. Hope all goes well in the future for you and your family. Thanks for the great work and making the choir the way it is.

Don Capps | 8:43 a.m. March 5, 2008

Somehow, in all the spotlight, Craig remained a personable and humble man. I am grateful for the opportunity I had to sing under his direction. As others have noted, he is a brilliant choral leader but, I felt, his greatest heights were his spiritual insights.
Thank you, Brother Jessup. You have given your all. We wish you the best in your future opportunities.

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

I will miss the talent Craig has. I love to watch him conduct. I wish him all the luck in the future. Thanks for a job well done. Thanks for the service you rendered. You have entertained my family so much. I will still enjoy your many
CD's I have.
Sincerely,
Marsha

Texas Saint | 8:46 a.m. March 5, 2008

Very interesting that Brother Jessop had just last month spent a week or so here in San Antonio directing the Texas High School All-State Mixed Choir; one of the most revered high school all-state choirs in the nation. And now, he states that he may want to return to teaching... maybe he fell in love all over again with the roots of music, and realized that much of his enjoyment of music came from tending those budding musical testimonies and talents in younger people...? I like to think the best of this truly great man - kudos to you, President Jessop (my former stake presidency member while we were both stationed with the Air Force in Germany), best wishes on your future with your wife, children, and grandchildren!

Don L. | 8:59 a.m. March 5, 2008

The ladies of Millville are shocked just like the rest of us.

Because of you, we will go on to greater heights as you have reminded us often that we are only at the foothills.

Thank you for your ever present spirit of the work and you kindness and forgiveness of our shortcomings.

May the Lord bless you and your family and extended family always.

Thank you for being a great director, mentor, and advocate for the Choir's cause.

I'm very honored to have sung under your leadership and to be a member of the Choir. You have truly blessed our lives.

We love you.

"Here's wishing you a happy voyage home !"

proud mom | 9:44 a.m. March 5, 2008

Brother Jessop directed an all-state choir that included my son. It was one of the highlights of my son's high school experience. He was personally involved with positive feedback and inspiration, not just to the choir as a whole but to the individual students. It was obvious that he loves to teach! Best of wishes and thank you.

Dan Ross | 9:55 a.m. March 5, 2008

I first met Craig as a young missionary in England over 35 years ago. He made such an impression on me (he was an assistant to the president at the time) that I have never forgotten him. He is one of the most spiritual human beings I have ever known. Don't worry. The Lord has a plan for him - and for the choir as well.

Downer Flashback | 9:55 a.m. March 5, 2008

Bro. Jessop: I called the guys and we want to sincerely apologize for strapping you to that EMT's gurney at Granite High, and wheeling you down into the band room and leaving you to rot:). I'm sure the flashback this Spring was a major factor in your decision to resign as the MoTab Director. Your attention to detail is the standard by which all subsequent Music Instructors have been measured throughout my life. Job well done Amigo!

Ann Elliott | 10:03 a.m. March 5, 2008

I cannot bear it! It is too abrupt and, knowing the quiet way the church works, something seems ammiss. Craig Jessop is a man of terrific integrity and talent. The choir, under his direction has soared and become a musical force for good and creative energy. What a blow.

Kent, Denmark | 10:05 a.m. March 5, 2008

Thank you for a wonderful contribution to the world of music and for sharing your magnificent skills with us all.
Were happy and privileged to be associated with you and the choir for some 35 years.

ShocknAwe | 10:24 a.m. March 5, 2008

Brother Jessop, we are truly grateful for your years of devotion and service. It does seem curious that you would announce your resignation after an "extra" rehearsal (Tuesday Night) as the choir prepares for an upcoming concert and General Conference. Why the need to resign so abruptly?

Mike R. | 10:22 a.m. March 5, 2008

I got to sing in a program in Morgan last year where Craig Jessop was the guest conductor. His energy and vibrance were clearly evident. In the two hours that he had us before the concert, he taught us things that most of us had never heard. His influence is evident all through the music world here in Utah.

He will be missed. He has taken what was a great choir and made it into a fantastic choir. The Mo Tab and the church are the much better for it. While his resigning is difficult for all, life and the Mo Tab will go on. The Choir's singular mandate from the Church demands it.

Good luck in your future endeavors Bro. Jessop.

To add to the speculation, maybe he got called to be the Bishop of is ward.

Susan in Carmichael, CA | 10:25 a.m. March 5, 2008

In the "Mission Field" Bro. Jessops name speaks to dear memories even amongst uninitiated LDS members. His life long musical talents and efforts will outlive even the most negative speculation. He has touched many lives beyond the boundaries of the "valley." Bro Wilberg will be magnified, have no fear. And whomever is appointed to the choir directorship will be the right one at the right time. As an extended family member of a previous Tab choir director, I extend heartfelt appreciation for Craig's work and best wishes for his future.

Gregory L. | 10:33 a.m. March 5, 2008

Craig Jessop lived in our neighborhood when he taught at Granite H.S. and was as absolutely exemplary then as he has been ever since. I don't know if the church hierarchy recognizes the impact and influence he has had from the perspective of an outsider. He has helped put the church on the map in ways and in circles that would never have been the case without his contribution. Everyone I talk to is deeply almost depressingly disappointed. One former choir member told me that he is not one to admire people much because he tends to so quickly see the flaws in others - he has only admired completely two individuals in his life and one of those is Craig Jessop. If the church has a few treasures, this man is one of them, perhaps they should re-think how unceremoniously he now departs. The hole he leaves in our culture (and the culture of any group is worth noting and preserving) is gapping.

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

Craig Jessop's and Mack Wilberg's beautiful music at the Choir and the BYU choirs were one of the main supports to my faith at some times when it was seriously wavering. Thank you.

All Is Not Well | 10:41 a.m. March 5, 2008

With Jessop's integrity as a person and as a musician there is NO WAY he would leave his good colleague and friend Mack Wilberg high and dry in the middle of a major upcoming concert and General Conference right around the corner. The preparations are frantic and critical right now. This announcement comes with no notice and no plans to stay on until a replacement can be found. This would not be happening unless this was a forced leave. Think about it. It is too abrupt. Isn't anyone else questioning this? I believe there is a much bigger "story behind the story" that the church and possibly this newspaper is trying to cover up.

What? | 11:09 a.m. March 5, 2008

Something's not right here. Reminds me of Jay Welch's exit 35 years ago. Abrupt, unexpected, something weird going on. Bro. Ottley in for 30 years, and now this? Jessop was the best director they've ever had by far... now bland Wilberg takes over? Please...

Martha Lauritzen | 11:07 a.m. March 5, 2008

Craig, you are a man of the highest integrity. I know that your decision is the correct and very best one for you and your family. Thank you for your many years of incredible dedication and inspiration.

Jonathan in MO | 11:14 a.m. March 5, 2008

Brother Jessop,

Thanks for bringing us some of the finest music the world has ever known. I find no music more uplifting and peaceful than that which has been done by the choir during your tenure.

God bless you - for your dedication and sacrifices which have brought the gospel to the world through music.

Choir Friend | 11:34 a.m. March 5, 2008

Re: All Is Not Well

Agreed, clearly something is wrong. But observers of Craig Jessop know that he has been running at an unbelievable pace for years. There is no need to speculate on a conspiracy. It is just as likely that he finally reached a breaking point. Rather than throw up our hands, let's just be grateful for the wonderful service he has given and wish him the very best.

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