Robert Sands (conductor) facts for kids

Robert Sands (born April 15, 1828 – died December 7, 1872) was an important music leader. He was the fifth person to be the conductor of the famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir. What made him special was that he was the first conductor to lead the choir in the amazing new Salt Lake Tabernacle. This big building is on Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah. Before Robert Sands, the choir sang in an older building on Temple Square, led by Charles J. Thomas.

Robert Sands: A Choir Leader

Early Life and Faith

Robert Sands was born in 1828 in a place called Ballinascreen in County Londonderry, Ireland. Later, he moved to Scotland. In 1849, he became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. For a while, he served as a Mormon missionary in Scotland, sharing his beliefs with others.

Leading the Choir

In 1863, Robert Sands moved to Utah Territory. Two years later, in November 1865, he became the fifth director of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. This was a very important job!

In October 1867, he led the choir in their very first performance inside the brand new Salt Lake Tabernacle. This was a big moment for the choir and for the community. Robert Sands continued to lead the choir until 1869. After him, George Careless took over as the choir's director.

Robert Sands passed away in Salt Lake City in 1872 when he was 44 years old.