The Mormon Tabernacle Choir has long been associated with traditional performances of George Frideric Handel's Messiah, which are characterized by massive choral and orchestral forces and weighty interpretations of this popular oratorio. However, while there are no drastic stylistic revisions in the choir's 2016 release of Messiah, and it is decidedly not a period recreation, some aspects of historically informed practice have influenced this reading by Mack Wilberg, particularly in the use of a harpsichord continuo, fairly brisk tempos, clearly articulated choral parts, and a relatively light ensemble sound. Featuring the voices of soprano Sonya Yoncheva, mezzo-soprano Tamara Mumford, tenor Rolando Villazón, and bass Bryn Terfel, this performance also has the "star quality" that Handel encouraged in his recruitment of international singers.
The Grammy Award-winning, multiple Emmy Award winning, all-volunteer Mormon Tabernacle Choir is made up of 360 men and women who join their talents to create their trademark, instantly recognizable sound. They are accompanied by the Orchestra at Temple Square, a 150-member symphony, and the Bells on Temple Square, a 32-member handbell choir that are both likewise all volunteer. Hugh Bonneville is best known to American audiences for his role as Robert, Earl of Grantham, in ITV/PBS Masterpiece's global hit Downton Abbey, for which he received a Golden Globe. His many film credits include Notting Hill, Iris, The Monuments Men, and the two Paddington movies. One of Broadway's most accomplished performers, Sutton Foster has starred in 11 Broadway shows including her Tony-winning roles in Anything Goes and Thoroughly Modern Millie, as well as originating roles in The Drowsy Chaperone, Young Frankenstein, and Shrek the Musical. On TV, Foster stars as Liza in the critically-acclaimed TV Land comedy series Younger, and previously starred in Bunheads.