General Conference
April 4 at 10am, 2pm | April 5 at 10am, 2pm
Tune in for inspiration from leaders in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Oratorio from the Book of Mormon
March 29 at 1pm
This oratorio by Leroy Robertson draws on dramatic episodes from the Book of Mormon, including the prophecies of Samuel the Lamanite and the appearance and teachings of Jesus Christ to the people in the Americas. Written for soloists, chorus, and orchestra, the work moves from prophetic warning to moments of reflection and rejoicing, portraying themes of repentance, redemption, and divine mercy. Robertson’s sweeping score blends reverence with dramatic intensity as it brings these sacred narratives to life.
"Lamb of God" by Rob Gardner
March 29 at 3pm
Enjoy this powerful and poignant musical portrayal of the last days of Jesus Christ. Through its beautiful melodies and emotive lyrics, it invites audiences to journey alongside Christ in his final hours, experiencing the depth of his sacrifice and the hope of redemption.
"The Redeemer" by Robert Cundick
March 29 at 5pm
Cundick’s powerful oratorio vividly portrays the life, mission, and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. In the 1970’s, Ralph Woodward wanted to create a sacred work that would have meaning not only to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints but to ALL Christians. Dr. Woodward chose the texts from latter-day scripture and from the old and new testaments. The music is by Robert Cundick, who said that the composition came freely. Musical sounds immediately entered his mind when he prayerfully considered each new line of scripture. Ronald Staheli conducts the BYU Singers, BYU Concert Choir, BYU Philharmonic, with baritones Clayne Robison and Paul Busselberg, sopranos Stephanie Buckley and Veronica Hanson.
Requiem by Mack Wilberg
March 30 at 8pm
Tune in for breathtaking music that offers a sense of comfort, peace, and renewal. Unlike traditional settings of the Requiem Mass, Wilberg’s interpretation incorporates English texts alongside Latin, drawing from scripture and poetry to create a uniquely moving and accessible meditation on loss and hope.
"From the Sermons of Jesus Christ" by David Sargent
March 31 at 8pm
Sargent’s hauntingly beautiful composition draws inspiration from the timeless wisdom of Jesus' teachings. Through evocative melodies and intricate harmonies, Sargent captures the essence of spiritual reflection and introspection. Each movement of the piece delves into different aspects of Jesus's sermons. Join us for a profound journey into the heart of faith and devotion performed by the combined choirs and orchestra at BYU Idaho.
"The Crucifixion" by John Stainer
April 1 at 8pm
Stainer’s profound and timeless choral work takes audiences on a journey through the final hours of Jesus Christ. With its exquisite melodies and emotive harmonies, Stainer's composition captures the solemnity and pathos of the Crucifixion narrative, weaving together poignant solos, stirring choruses, and evocative orchestration. From the tender reflection of "God so loved the world" to the triumphant proclamation of "All for Jesus," this masterpiece invites listeners to contemplate the profound sacrifice and redemption at the heart of the Christian faith. Richard Hickox conducts the Westminster Singers, tenor Robert Tear, and baritone Benjamin Luxon.
"Stabat Mater" by Rossini
April 2 at 8pm
“Stabat Mater” sets a medieval poem that reflects on the grief of the Virgin Mary as she stands at the foot of the cross. In music that moves between intimate prayer and operatic drama, Rossini brings the text vividly to life with expressive solos, powerful choruses, and moments of radiant hope amid sorrow. The result is a deeply emotional meditation on suffering, compassion, and faith during the final hours of Christ’s Passion. Myung-Whun Chung conducts the Vienna Philharmonic, the Vienna State Opera Chorus, soprano Luba Orgonasova, mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli, tenor Raul Gimenez, and bass Roberto Scandiuzzi.
"St. Matthew Passion" by Bach
April 3 at 5pm
This monumental work vividly retells the story of Christ's crucifixion and surrounding events through a masterful blend of music and text. With its emotional depth and spiritual resonance, it stands as a pinnacle of Baroque sacred music. It’s an iconic composition that continues to inspire awe and contemplation, showcasing Bach's unparalleled genius as a composer. Stephen Cleobury conducts the Choir of King’s College, Academy of Ancient Music, tenor James Gilchrist, bass Matthew Rose, soprano Sophie Bevan, countertenor David Allsopp, tenor Mark Le Brocq, and bass William Gaunt.
"The Passion and the Promise of Our Lord Jesus Christ" by Daniel Gawthrop
April 4 at 8pm
This oratorio, written for the Sacred Music Series at BYU Idaho, utilizes scriptures in a musical setting to portray events in the Savior’s life. Beginning with his entry into Jerusalem and continuing through the crucifixion, the story extends to majestic accounts of his resurrection and his post-mortal ministries. Kevin Call conducts the BYU-Idaho Combined Choirs and Symphony Orchestra, with tenor Michael Belnap, soprano Christine Ciesinski, and baritone Norman Bailey
Handel's "Messiah"
April 5 at 4pm
In the summer of 1741, George Frideric Handel was at the peak of his musical prowess, but depressed and in debt. He began setting Charles Jennens' Biblical libretto to music at his usual breakneck speed. In just 24 days, Messiah was complete. Right up to the day of the premiere, Messiah was troubled by production difficulties and last-minute rearrangements of the score. Despite these difficulties, the oratorio soon became a favorite of audiences, with a popularity that lasts to this day. Robert Shaw leads the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Chorus, with sopranos Kaaren Erickson and Sylvia McNair, mezzo-soprano Alfreda Hodson, tenor Jon Humphrey, and baritone Richard Stilwell.
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