SALT LAKE CITY-Tuesday evening, The Tabernacle Choir reconvened at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City for its first organized in-person rehearsal since February 2020.

A few days ahead of this anticipated reunion, Choir leaders unveiled a seven-step protection plan in a “Restart Orientation” videoconference.

The purpose of this, per new Choir president Michael O. Leavitt, is “to keep the virus out of the loft in which the Choir sings.”

Pres. Leavitt, who was called to this position in August, formulated the protection plan with a team of health care experts and leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which the Choir represents.

This plan will allow the choir to sing at October General Conference for the Salt Lake City-based faith October 2 and 3.

Half of the Choir is to sing in the Saturday morning session. The other half will perform in the Sunday morning and afternoon sessions.

Music for the Saturday afternoon and evening sessions will come from prerecorded performances from other choirs.

Rehearsals and performances of the Orchestra at Temple Square and the Bells at Temple Square will come later, as will live broadcasts of Music and The Spoken Word.

The Choir’s multi-level strategy consists of:

1. Vaccinations-all performers must be vaccinated and provide evidence of immunization. Those who are not vaccinated will be granted a special leave until conditions improve.
2. Screening. Those with health conditions that limit the effectiveness of their immune systems, even if vaccinated, or with immunocompromised household members, will also be granted special leave.
3. Testing. Performers and support personnel will be tested prior to each rehearsal and performance.
4. Social Distancing. This is why the Choir will be divided into halves for General Conference
5. Face Coverings. Choir members will wear masks when gathered except when rehearsing or performing
6. Self-Reporting: Organization members will report virus symptoms or household exposure and stay home with any symptoms.
7. Ventilation. Performances will be limited to the Conference Center for now because of greater ventilation safety.