Four generations, one choir: The family legacy behind a Tabernacle Choir singer
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SALT LAKE CITY — Singing in the Tabernacle Choir is a multi-generational tradition for Leslie Johnson.
The Utah woman, who grew up in Rexburg, represents the fourth generation of her family to be part of the world-renowned singing ensemble. She’s been a member of the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square since 2022, and she was part of its recent “Songs of Hope” concert at the Hollywood Bowl amphitheater in Los Angeles.
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Johnson’s parents, Richard and Carolyn Robison, were members of the choir from 1957 to 1959. That’s where they met and fell in love, she said.
During that time, the Robisons were part of the choir’s original recording of “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” which earned a Grammy Award in 1959, according to a historical timeline provided by The Church of Jesus of Christ of Latter-day Saints, with which the choir is affiliated.
Carolyn died on June 30 after a long battle with cancer. She was 88.
Carolyn’s mother, Helen Peterson Hooper, joined the choir in 1958 and stayed with the group until 1967. Hooper’s husband died years earlier. Helen met Thomas Hicken while on tour with the choir. He eventually became her second husband.
In 1878, during the choir’s early years, Carolyn’s great-grandparents, Thomas Albert and Emily Susanna Aubrey Hooper, met while performing in the choir and were married later that year.
This week on “It’s Worth Mentioning,” Rett Nelson speaks with Johnson about this unique family tradition. She shares details about her ancestor’s involvement with the choir and her mother’s passing.
Johnson discusses her experiences with the choir and how her mother’s love of music played a role in the final years of her life. Johnson explains how her mother’s example has influenced who she is today.
On the heels of the Tabernacle Choir’s Hollywood Bowl performance, this is a timely conversation taking place one day before what would have been Carolyn’s 89th birthday. It’s an unforgettable episode that you don’t want to miss.
Watch previous episodes of “It’s Worth Mentioning” here. Check out the show on Facebook. If you have a tip, guest idea or comment, email rett@eastidahonews.com.