With over 15,000 Facebook fan page members, it is no surprise that the Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s new album, “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing: American Folk Hymns and Spirituals,” achieved the number one position on the classical overall Billboard music chart.

The choir’s number one position took the spot from leading classical music artists such as Il Divo, Placido Domingo and Andrea Bocelli.

In addition to the Billboard classic music chart, the album ranked No. 1 on the classical crossover chart,

No. 8 on the contemporary Christian chart and number 126 on the Billboard Top 200.

“The choir is no stranger to Billboard chart hits, and we record every CD with the intent of success,” said Scott Barrick, the choir’s general manager. “We are very grateful for this number one position.”

In order to promote national achievement, the choir takes advantage of various marketing opportunities, including the new media technologies such as Facebook.

“The success of the choir’s album is a crucial factor in creating public enthusiasm,” said Dalaney Mecham, a senior studying political science. “After hearing about the album’s success, I am excited to purchase my own copy.”

Outside of the basic Utah retailers, the album can be found at Borders, Barnes & Noble, Walmart and iTunes.

“The Mormon Tabernacle Choir has proven once again why it is America’s choir,” said Bob Ahlander, managing director for Deseret Book’s music division. “We want to congratulate the choir for putting out another great album for music fans everywhere.”

From June 18-30, the choir will voluntarily travel across Central America for their tour offered every other year. The choir will fly to Cincinnati and travel on buses to the remaining six cities.

For more information visit www.mormon.tabernacle.org.



Copyright Brigham Young University 30 Apr 2009