Richard Elliott has served as a principal organist for The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square for over 35 years, having joined the staff in 1991. His career bridges the preservation of pioneer-era musical traditions with modern performance, grounded in a philosophy that views music as a profound act of faith and personal ministry.
How does history influence modern organ performance?
For Richard Elliott, the Tabernacle organ is a physical link to the past. He frequently utilizes a set of pipes dating back to 1867 located in the east end of the building. According to Elliott, playing these historic pipes evokes a sense that the pioneers are still present, creating a “magical” connection between the building’s construction and the music performed today. He often includes the pioneer-era hymn “Come, Come, Ye Saints” in his daily recitals to honor this heritage.
The tradition of daily organ recitals at Temple Square dates back to 1911. These 30-minute performances continue today at noon, Monday through Saturday, and at 2 p.m. on Sundays.
Why is music considered an act of faith?
Elliott describes the process of performing for large-scale events, such as general conference sessions or Christmas concerts, as a challenge that requires spiritual discipline. He notes that it is common to experience self-doubt when sitting at the organ bench. To overcome this, he emphasizes the necessity of prayer and focusing on the Savior, which he believes brings the reassurance of the Holy Ghost. This professional approach mirrors his personal life, where he views daily practice as being similar to the daily effort required to live the gospel.
What is the connection between music and service?
Elliott’s commitment to service is rooted in his upbringing in Baltimore, Maryland, where his great-grandfather served as a Methodist minister. After investigating the Church while studying at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, he was baptized at age 23. His life has been defined by service, including his mission in the Argentina Rosario Mission from 1981 to 1983. In August 2025, he returned to Argentina with The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra to celebrate the centennial of the Church in South America, focusing on one-on-one interactions with the people he served decades prior.
How do organists manage professional and personal life?
Elliott met his wife, Elizabeth, while both were students at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York. The couple eventually moved to Utah after Elliott was hired as an organ faculty member at Brigham Young University. Their partnership extends to music; they have performed together in the Assembly Hall, with Elliott on the organ and his wife on the piano. In 1991, following a period of prayer and fasting, Elliott successfully auditioned for his current position after being encouraged to apply by the retirement of Robert Cundick.
Pro Tips for Aspiring Musicians
- Embrace mistakes: Elliott suggests that every performer will eventually face errors. The key is to learn from the experience and move forward, much like the process of repentance in the gospel.
- Focus on the individual: Drawing from the example of Jesus, Elliott advises looking for opportunities to minister to the “one”—the specific person who needs what you have to offer.
- Stay consistent: Just as daily practice is essential for musical mastery, daily effort is required to maintain spiritual alignment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Richard Elliott been with the Tabernacle Choir?
Richard Elliott joined the organ staff at Temple Square in May 1991, marking over 35 years of service as of 2026.
What is the significance of the Tabernacle organ pipes?
Certain pipes in the east end of the Tabernacle date back to 1867. Organists use these to maintain a tangible connection to the pioneers who built the facility.
Where can I hear the daily organ recitals?
Recitals are held at the Salt Lake Tabernacle at noon, Monday through Saturday, and at 2 p.m. on Sundays. More information can be found at thetabernaclechoir.org.
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