Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra’s ‘Songs of Hope’ Tour Resonates in Brazil

SÃO PAULO, Brazil — After a 45-year absence, The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square and Orchestra at Temple Square have returned to Brazil, captivating audiences with their “Songs of Hope” tour. The choir’s first concert in São Paulo, held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the Sala São Paulo concert hall, was described as a “gift” by attendees, marking a historic moment for the ensemble and its Brazilian fans.

A Homecoming for Brazilian Choir Members

The tour holds particular significance for members of the choir with Brazilian heritage. Alvaro Martins and Alan Silva, both Brazilian choir members, expressed profound joy at performing in their home country. “It’s been a feeling that I can’t even describe. I’m filled with joy,” said Martins, recalling reunions with former acquaintances in the audience. Silva shared a similar sentiment, noting the emotional impact of singing in Portuguese and witnessing the audience’s reaction. “I could see faces when I was singing the first song in Portuguese… it was incredible,” he stated.

A Collaboration with Brazilian Artists

The concert featured a special collaboration with Brazilian musical artists Fabi Bang and Myra Ruiz, known for their roles as Glinda and Elphaba in the musical Wicked. Bang performed “Feed the Birds” from Mary Poppins, even as Ruiz sang “Bridge Over Troubled Water” composed by Paul Simon, alongside the choir. The performance of “For Good” with Bang and Ruiz was a highlight of the evening, blending Broadway flair with the choir’s signature sound.

Warm Welcome and Cultural Exchange

The choir’s arrival in Brazil was met with a warm welcome, including a cultural celebration dinner featuring traditional Brazilian dancing. This exchange underscored the vibrant cultural landscape of Brazil, the largest country in South America, known for its music, dance, and vivid colors.

Historic Return and Audience Impact

The Tabernacle Choir last performed in Brazil in 1981. The opening concert in São Paulo drew a diverse audience, including political, religious, and government leaders, all of whom expressed their appreciation for the performance. Rabbi Uri Lam described the experience as “beautiful,” while Buddhist Monk Ryozan noted the performance reflected “harmony between choir and all the instrument,” calling it “the most important thing I’ve seen in my life.”

Upcoming Performances

The choir is scheduled to perform three additional concerts at the Ginásio do Ibirapuera on Friday, February 27, Saturday, February 28, and Sunday, March 1, 2026. Tickets for the concerts have been distributed. The Church News and Deseret News provided coverage of the choir’s arrival and initial performance.