Tabernacle Choir celebrates milestone with 5,000th episode broadcast

On July 13, 2025, The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square celebrated a significant milestone with the 5,000th episode of "Music & the Spoken Word." This weekly program, which airs from the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, is recognized as the longest continuously running network broadcast worldwide. More than six million people across over 50 countries tune in each week through radio, television, and online streaming.

President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints emphasized the global impact of the program: "'Music & the Spoken Word' knows no boundaries in this great world with multiple races and nationalities... Music communicates to the heart and soul of individuals in a way that written words cannot duplicate."

The show appeals to diverse faiths and cultures. Rabbi Jarrod R. Grover from Beth Tikvah Synagogue in Toronto expressed his appreciation for its positive message: "'Music & the Spoken Word' is a rare exception that provides half an hour of music and message that is totally positive and affirming and hopeful."

Rabbi Grover had an opportunity to sing with The Tabernacle Choir during a rehearsal on July 10, after receiving an invitation from Derrick Porter. He described his experience as filled with "miracles," including attending a homecoming address for a missionary he befriended.

Michael O. Leavitt, President of The Tabernacle Choir, reiterated music's universal appeal: "The work of the Choir is for 'billions of people who speak hundreds of languages...who seek peace.'"

Perry Sook from the National Association of Broadcasters presented an award recognizing "unwavering excellence" in broadcasting faith and music's unifying power.

Heidi Swinton reflected on how "Music & the Spoken Word" has supported audiences through difficult times since its inception on July 15, 1929.

Longtime listeners like Warna Huff recalled early broadcasts fondly: "It just makes you feel good."

Choir Director Mack Wilberg expressed gratitude for those who laid foundations for current successes: "We stand on the shoulders of thousands who have come before us."

Derrick Porter focused on inspiring hope during Sunday's episode titled “5,000 Weeks of Inspiration,” sharing stories like Caden Simpson's father finding peace amid hardship.

Porter stated that despite expanding reach, popularity isn't their goal: "'Music and the Spoken Word' seeks to fill a void...a regular voice saying ‘It’s going to be OK.’"