On Christmas Eve, 1818, the congregation of St. Nicholas Church in Oberndorf, Austria heard the first performance of Silent Night. The carol was accompanied by just a guitar. Joseph Mohr, a priest who was only 26 years old, wrote the simple yet powerful words. Franz Gruber, a close friend, wrote the inspired music. This song has since touched the hearts of millions throughout the world and has been performed more than any other carol.
To commemorate 200 years since the first performance of this carol, a "Silent Night 200 Mormon Choir" will travel to Austria and Germany this December. Individuals and groups who wish to join the choir are encouraged to register. The choir will sing in Oberndorf, at the Christmas Markets in Salzburg, and at the Passion Play Theater in Oberammergau, Germany.
Other highlights of the choir tour include visits to the Hohensalzburg castle in Salzburg, Neuschwanstein castle (which inspired Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle), the world-famous Christmas Markets, and guided tours of Oberndorf and Munich.
The choir is currently accepting participants who would like to participate in this historic tour. Individuals, families, and friends are welcome to register as participants in the choir or as "travel members" who accompany and support the choir.
For more information, or to apply, click here.