What musical group can say they’ve performed at the inaugurations of five U.S. presidents, has five gold and two platinum recordings, and has sold millions of records? Hint: it’s accompanied by an 11,623-piece pipe organ. It’s the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, of course.
You don’t have to be religious to enjoy the sweet sounds of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir during a Salt Lake City vacation. The choir has traveled all over the world and been broadcast on numerous TV shows. After a brief stint on the road at the end of this month, they’ll be back and singing in Salt Lake City as they always do on Sunday mornings and Thursday evenings (the Thursday session is their rehearsal, which is open to the public). And any day of the week you can stop in to hear an organ recital.
The choir is an inseparable part of Utah’s history. For over 150 years, the choir has sang at every major state event. The choir was much smaller back when it started in 1847. Today it’s made up of 360 men and women ranging in age from 25 to 60. All singers in the choir are volunteers.
The organ recitals often take place around lunchtime, so after you listen to the music, follow it up with some Mexican food at Salt Lake City’s prized Red Iguana restaurant. Very brightly decorated (some say it borders on tacky), this restaurant is so popular that the famed band Los Lobos eats here whenever they’re in town. The family-owned restaurant has its roots in traditional Mexican cuisine, and menu staples include smothered nachos, gigantic burritos, tasty tostadas, and a wide array of moles.
The moles are made from herbs and chiles, and there are all sorts of variations to choose from—some are made with walnuts, others with bananas, or even pumpkin. The guacamole is so good you’ll want to come back for your next meal and eat even more. And you’ll be in good company—the place is always packed.
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