Tabernacle Choir Expands 'Music and the Spoken Word' Broadcast Across Africa

The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square announced plans to air a special broadcast of "Music and the Spoken Word" across Africa on April 19, 2026. The broadcast will reach audiences in dozens of countries across the continent, marking one of the program's largest geographic expansions.

"Music and the Spoken Word" has aired continuously since 1929, making it one of the longest-running radio and television programs in history. The show features performances by the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square, along with spoken reflections on faith and life.

Church officials said the African expansion reflects growing membership and interest in the program across the continent. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has seen significant growth in sub-Saharan Africa over the past decade.

The April 19 broadcast will be available through local television partners and streaming platforms in participating countries. Church representatives said they worked with regional broadcasters to ensure the program would be accessible in areas with limited internet connectivity.

The announcement came shortly after the April 2026 General Conference, during which the Tabernacle Choir performed alongside twelve global members from ten countries and territories. Church President Dallin H. Oaks encouraged members worldwide to study the conference messages and strengthen their communities.

The African broadcast initiative is part of a broader effort by the church to make its programming available in more languages and regions. The choir's performances are already available in multiple languages through the church's Gospel Library app.