Craig D. Jessop, a distinguished American academic, musician, and vocalist, was born in the year 1949.
Jessop's connection to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a lifelong one, rooted in his birthplace of Millville, Utah, a location that has played a significant role in shaping his identity and spiritual trajectory.
As an individual with a strong academic foundation, Jessop's educational journey began at Utah State University, where he laid the groundwork for his future pursuits.
Subsequently, he further honed his skills at Brigham Young University, a prestigious institution that provided him with a comprehensive understanding of his chosen field.
Ultimately, it was at Stanford University that Jessop's academic odyssey reached its pinnacle, as he had the privilege of studying under the guidance of two of the most renowned music directors of his time, Robert Shaw and Helmuth Rilling.
Jessop's distinguished career has been marked by a diverse array of roles, with one of the most notable being his tenure as director of the esteemed National High School Choir Festival, a highly respected event that takes place at the iconic Carnegie Hall.
As director, Jessop is responsible for selecting schools from across the country to participate in the festival, with the ultimate goal of inspiring and empowering young singers to develop their talents and perform alongside renowned musicians.
Before joining the esteemed ranks of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, Jessop had a remarkable and illustrious career in the United States Air Force, where he rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel and held a variety of prestigious positions, including director of the esteemed Singing Sergeants, commander and conductor of the illustrious Band of the United States Air Forces in Europe, and conductor of the Ramstein Community Choir and the Rheinpfalz Community Choir.
Jessop's educational career commenced with a tenure as director of choral activities at Granite High School, a prestigious institution located in the vibrant city of Salt Lake City, Utah. Following this stint, he was appointed as the Associate Director of the esteemed Mormon Tabernacle Choir in the year 1995. His remarkable leadership skills and artistic vision eventually led to his promotion to the position of Director of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir in 1999, a role he held with distinction until his unexpected resignation in 2008.
Jessop's visionary leadership played a pivotal role in the Mormon Tabernacle Choir's remarkable achievements, garnering a plethora of prestigious accolades. One such notable recognition was the Special Recognition Award bestowed upon the ensemble by the esteemed International Radio and Television Society Foundation. Additionally, the choir received the highest honor in the arts, the National Medal of Arts, presented to them by President George W. Bush in a ceremony that served as a testament to their outstanding contributions to the world of music.
Merrill J. Bateman
Merrill J. Bateman was born on January 8, 1928, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from the University of Utah in 1950 and later received his Juris Doctor from the University of California, Berkeley in 1953. Bateman served as the president of Brigham Young University from 1985 to 1996. During his tenure, he oversaw significant growth and development at the institution, including the establishment of several new programs and the construction of various buildings.
A notable individual by the name of Jessop is currently in a loving partnership with his spouse, with whom he shares a fulfilling domestic life. Together, they have brought into the world four delightful offspring, who have subsequently grown up to become thriving individuals in their own right. Moreover, this wonderful family has been blessed with a total of eleven grandchildren, who undoubtedly bring immense joy and pride to their grandparents.
