David Archuleta Embarks On A Two

David Archuleta To Embark On A Two Year Mission For The Mormon Church

December 21, 2011 by Masterclass Lady 37 Comments


Not only does David Archuleta have the voice of an angel, but he also embodies the spirit of one.

At the end of his outstanding performance in Salt Lake City, David made a very special announcement (see the above video) – that he was going to embark on a two-year mission for the Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints.

20111221-103552.jpg

David became overwhelmed with emotion when he made his announcement:

“It’s not because somebody told me that I was supposed to do it, not because that I no longer want to do music anymore, but it’s because it’s the feeling that I felt that I need to do next in my life.”

I have to say I wasn’t totally surprised. After meeting David during the American Idol Season Seven summer tour, I mentioned to my family that something very special was happening with David – beyond music.

His spirituality and introspective nature was just so tangible. He seemed to be seeing and capturing an essence that others could not visualize. The world that he created for himself was a very special one and now we know why.

20111221-104155.jpg

It is important in life to understand your instincts and prioritize what is really important. It makes for a meaningful, solid and truly successful road as a human being.

I congratulate and applaud David for his impeccable taste and lifestyle choices. He may not have won that American Idol title, but sure as I’m standing here, he is the epitome of one.

The video below captures both his announcement and his final number in the “My Kind Of Christmas” tour stop in Salt Lake City. It is truly beautiful – in fact probably the most beautiful version I have ever heard.

And, interestingly enough, the audible breathing that is the result of David’s vocal cord paralysis, was barely evident in this number. All one could hear was the passionate glory of his gorgeous and expressive voice.

Please stop by and share the love in the comments thread. Don’t be a stranger.

American Idol, American Idol Season 7, David Archuleta, Music, Singing, Videos
, , ,

About Masterclass Lady

Rosanne (Giallonardo) Simunovic began her musical career in Timmins, Ontario. She studied piano with Anne Pizzale and later, at an advanced level, with Soeur Anita Vaugeois (Sister Cecile of Les Soeurs De L’Assomption in Timmins). Her vocal and accompaniment skills were nurtured by her aunt, the late Dorothea Mascioli. When Rosanne graduated from O’Gorman High School, she moved on to the University of Toronto where she continued her piano and vocal studies while attaining a Bachelor of Arts Degree. She was hired as a piano accompanist for several musical companies, most notably, the National Ballet Of Canada. She presently holds an A.R.C.T. Teacher’s Diploma in Voice from the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto. Rosanne has studied choral conducting with numerous well known Canadian Conductors, including Wayne Riddell of Montreal, Quebec and the internationally renowned Dr. Elmer Iseler. She has been a founding member of numerous community-based arts organizations: the Timmins Arts Council, later known as Arts & Culture Timmins, the Timmins Symphony Orchestra, and, the Timmins Youth Singers…as well as the TYS Alumnus choir, the Timmins Concert Singers. In 1987, she was also selected to be the conductor of the Timmins Board Of Education Choir, comprised of talented students from Grades 5 to 8. In 1988, she was elected to the Board Of Directors of the Ontario Choral Federation (now known as Choirs Ontario), where she served as Chair of the Festivals Committee for six consecutive seasons. In 1996, in honour of the Ontario Choral Federation’s 25th Anniversary, Rosanne was selected as one of 25 recipients of the OCF’s Distinguished Service Award for outstanding contribution to the choral art. The ceremony was presided by Lieutenant Governor, Hal Jackman. In November 1997, Rosanne Simunovic was selected by the Rotary Club Of Timmins to receive the prestigious Paul Harris Award for her years of dedication to the artistic development of young musical talent in Timmins. In August of 2002, Rosanne Simunovic was selected by the Board Of Directors of Choirs Ontario to serve as Conductor of both the Provincial Junior and Teen Choir Camps, now renamed in honour of the Camp Benefactors, Don and Lillian Wright. In November 2002, Rosanne was the one of the recipients of the Commemorative Medal for the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, honouring her work in the development of the arts in Timmins. Under Rosanne Simunovic’s direction, the Timmins Youth Singers and the Timmins Concert Singers have been featured in numerous choral festivals and performing opportunities outside of Timmins. In 1985, they were selected to partici
View all posts by Masterclass Lady →

37 Responses to “David Archuleta To Embark On A Two Year Mission For The Mormon Church”

  1. VeeBee123 December 21, 2011 at 1:51 pm

    O Holy Night made me feel so deeply. Deeper than I have ever felt. I felt every emotion, every lyric of the song. I was lost in the glorious depth of the notes. I almost fell on my knees when he sang that line.
    David has brought something so special to my life. I can’t imagine these last few years without David. His music has done so much for me.
    I am proud of him and his decisions. I hope he has a satisfying and fulfilling mission, and that he is able to live another one of his dreams.
    Thank you, MCL, for all the lovely words you have written all these years. I have enjoyed reading your perspectives, and have learnt a great deal about music from your blogs.

    Like

  2. Masterclass Lady December 21, 2011 at 1:53 pm

    Thank you so much VeeBee. I was so moved by his announcement and then his version of “O Holy Night” just made the whole experience spiritually memorable.

    Like

  3. ncgirlmarylee December 21, 2011 at 1:54 pm

    I adore David Archuleta & everything he stands for. I’ve been his fan for almost 4 years since Idol & will continue to keep him in my prayers & wait for his return to music. GodSpeed David ♥

    Like

  4. TOfan December 21, 2011 at 2:00 pm

    Thanks for this MCL… so beautifully put, as always!

    Like

  5. jwipe December 21, 2011 at 2:09 pm

    Your description of David is absolutely perfect. Just when we think we could not be more proud, he raises the bar and makes us even more proud. It’s not even a matter of religious belief but a matter of following your heart. David has always been the epitome of that virtue.

    Like

  6. archftw December 21, 2011 at 2:09 pm

    David is indeed the epitome of an American Idol. Watching him live his faith in all he says and does continually humbles me. He’ll be missed greatly here, but I believe will be used in a mighty way wherever his mission takes him. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts.

    Like

  7. rhed31 December 21, 2011 at 2:17 pm

    thank you MCL for this. and thank you for the video as well. i hadn’t seen the two together. and even though i was at this concert i still wanted to watch videos of it. i was so surprised that he could sing that song while crying. what a special night it was.

    Like

  8. KH December 21, 2011 at 2:54 pm

    David not only seems to live his life fully, listening constantly for that inner voice, but he inspires others (me) to at least try. I love him as much as I love his voice — probably more — and I can’t wait to hear about this part of his journey when he re-emerges on the other side.

    Like

  9. Kirsten December 21, 2011 at 3:04 pm

    Love the article, MCL! Couldn’t have said it better myself.

    KH – Have you been commenting over at Fans of David? If so, hi again!

    Like

  10. JHM December 21, 2011 at 3:12 pm

    MCL thank you so much for your wonderful words, so beautifully stated. I am feeling very proud of David for following his heart, his most sacred feelings. His fans will miss him terribly, I know I will. David’s O Holy Night….the most beautiful version of the song I have ever heard. Moves me beyond words, Will be here waiting for David when he returns and wishing him only the best while he’s away.

    Like

  11. Heidijoy December 21, 2011 at 4:15 pm

    Thank you MCL! I was there and witnessed this!! I appreciate hearing what you have to say. The whole day from gifting 50 of his GCT CD/DVD, a fan penciled portrait of David, $250.00 for the Music Therapy dept to the Primary Children’s Hospital from The Golden Archie Fans and David Fans, the VIP where we gave David the Certificate regarding the Primary children’s Hospital Project, the concert where he poured his heart and soul into every performance to the Announcement was a Spiritual Experience we had during this venture that I’ll never forget. David is gifted spiritually,musically,and has made a difference in my life. Now I must get my Big Girl Shoes on and ENJOY this concert tonight in Beaver Creek. We will carry your spirit with us as we celebrate this occasion and set out to make a difference ourselves while David is gone. Thanks for sharing your perspective MCL and send positive vibes to David and us tonight.

    Like

  12. awestruck December 21, 2011 at 5:01 pm

    Thank you MCL – eloquently stated and the absolute truth. God bless you David!

    Like

  13. djafan December 21, 2011 at 6:41 pm

    Thank you so much MCL!!! Your words are very comforting and David Archuleta’s fans will be here waiting for him ♥

    Like

  14. Masterclass Lady December 21, 2011 at 7:00 pm

    Heidi – know that my positive vibes and spirit are with all of you and David, of course. What an uplifting story – truly inspirational and truly a meaningful celebration of the season.

    Thank you all for your beautiful comments. Merry Christmas!

    Like

  15. Anita December 21, 2011 at 7:24 pm

    I’m so very proud of David for taking this huge step of faith. It says so much about his character. I’m going to miss him alot, though, but I know in my heart he’ll be back, doing the music he loves. David has given his fans alot over the last 4 years, now it’s time for him for give to the Lord. I can’t argue with that! From my understanding, during this two year mission, he won’t be able to have any contact with his fans of course, and he won’t be able to see his family. David will only be allowed to talk with family twice a year. So this is a huge and courageous step David is taking in his life, and God Bless him for it!!

    Like

  16. Masterclass Lady December 21, 2011 at 7:30 pm

    Anita – I know. The commitment is huge. What courage he has! And what tremendous faith. I love him even more for this.

    Like

  17. supergrandjudie December 21, 2011 at 8:30 pm

    MCL, thank you so much for your comments about our dear David. His music has warmed our hearts and his sweet, spirtitual self has made me so happy and glad that I was able to be a part of his fantastic journey. Now it is taking on a new beginning for him and wish him a wonderful, fulfilling time in his life. I will always be a fan and waiting for his return. The song “Smile” even though your heart is breaking comes to mind. Peace and love for the holidays.

    Like

  18. abcteach December 21, 2011 at 8:41 pm

    My problem is what do I do while he is gone for 2 years. He has set the bar so high since AI that noone can touch him for me, so will I not listen to music while he is gone. I do not enjoy radio anymore because there is not a voice that can touch his. So, I guess I will just listen to his cds etc. but that is not possible right now because it hurts too bad. Maybe later when I have time to sort it all out in my mind. MCL you have always been a fan of David’s because you recognize his brillance. He is one of a kind and I will miss his music and most of all him and his heart these next 2 years. I just hope and pray when he returns he will continue with music and let us all share in the beauty of his voice and the magnicent person he is.

    Like

  19. Civ December 21, 2011 at 11:33 pm

    because of David’s announcement i have decided to make my life more interesting — wen i was a kid my mom and dad told me to go to mission like them– but until now i cant decide if i want to — David’s announcement really made me realize what’s the real happiness here on earth! I still have few years to decide if i really want to go on a mission — and if i would choose to go David will have a biggest part of my decision! he’s amazing! He’s My kind of PERFECT!! =)) He’s an Angel that God send here to influence thousands of youths =))

    Like

  20. AFD-FanScene December 22, 2011 at 12:41 am

    Thank you for your article MCL and all of your support of David over these years and in the years to come 😀 David is not going away .. he will just be singing in a different place for awhile. Joy to those who will get to hear it.

    Like

  21. RD December 22, 2011 at 2:45 am

    Thank you MCL about your perspective about David’s decision. I have always read your comments about David over the years….you really “get” him.

    I really feel tha David will know more what path in music and his path in life as well after the 2-year mission thus fulfilling some personal life goals to make himself feel a more complete person when he returns as well as helping him to prioritize what course he wants his life and career from that point forward to take. I think since AI was over, David’s label has been wrestling with what music he should do to be popular. David wants to do music that he “feels” and has a message of some kind…..which is the best music for him. Coincidentally, these are songs that are the same types of songs he sang on Idol that helped so many (young and old) fall in love this young man.

    I hope that his experience gives him the peace and drive to come back and pursure about what he is passionate, hopefully in in music. God willing, I for one will be here ready to welcome him back.

    Like

  22. Kirsten December 22, 2011 at 11:34 am

    MCL – That is a twitter video, so it may or may not work for you, but I HAD to share it. It’s called I’m Trying to be Like Jesus. I’ve known this song since I was a little girl and love David’s interpretation of it. Enjoy! I got the video to play in Google Chrome but not in Internet Explorer. Here’s the link – http://www.twitvid.com/HXNKN

    Like

  23. Kirsten December 22, 2011 at 11:35 am

    I meant to say “This is a Twitter video…”

    Like

  24. terry December 22, 2011 at 11:36 am

    hi
    i feel different the everyone i am sort of mad at david for leaving us hanging …two years is much to long for him to go away….his new video wait is coming soon””’his tour was fantastic”’he is singing better then ever…..instead of going on a mission he should be signing with someone and continue his carrear”””””’i couldnt sleep last night thinking about all of this……….he should stay and prove to the world that he has the best voice ever……i adore david but i still think he is doing the wrong thing and letting down all his fans,,,,,,,,,,as in serving god…david has done that already…alll the charities he is affiliated with and his love for the lord..his family and his fans….please dont go david as we all need you here…………………………………..

    Like

  25. Masterclass Lady December 22, 2011 at 12:23 pm

    Kirsten – the video played beautifully on my IPad. What a gorgeous, inspiring and sensitive performance. I must find this song. Thank you for the link.

    Like

  26. sj December 22, 2011 at 1:04 pm

    MCL – here is the sheet music to “I’m Trying To Be Like Jesus” – it is from the lds.org website the sheet music is free and available to print from the site.

    http://lds.org/churchmusic/detailmusicPlayer/index.html?searchlanguage=1&searchcollection=2&searchseqstart=78&searchsubseqstart=%20&searchseqend=78&searchsubseqend=ZZZ

    Like

  27. joelhss December 22, 2011 at 1:13 pm

    Thank you, MCL. You have always supported David in so many ways. I am 70 and in good health, so I hope I will be here to see what David has in store for us after he returns. I wish could live to see David in his 40’s. I really believe he will still be performing. Hopefully, when David comes back in 2 years, he gets as much publicity for his return as he has for his departure.

    Like

  28. Mia Alexander (@MiaAlex2) December 22, 2011 at 2:14 pm

    I was at the SLC show when he made his announcement to go on a mission!! The crowd was very supportive of him. He is such an amazing young man! Not only is he talented but he is a beautiful young man inside and out!!

    Like

  29. Kirsten December 22, 2011 at 2:36 pm

    You are very welcome, MCL. I’m so glad you enjoyed it.

    Like

  30. Linda Soderquist December 22, 2011 at 5:14 pm

    Love your post. Thanks so much, also for including the final number, O Holy Night. His singing tells the story as much as his words. Thanks for focusing on the fine qualities of the young man that would bring him to make such a commitment.

    Like

  31. Rayka04 December 23, 2011 at 12:57 am

    Dear MCL, Thank you so much for your wonderful post. While watching the video, tears running down my eyes. Suddenly I’m feeling empty inside me, thinking that for the whole two years David won’t be with us. But, I also happy that as young as he is right now he already reached a level that is far beyond his age. There is something about him that separates him from other young singers out there. I wish nothing but the best for him and that he will be back and share his beautiful voice with us again. Here again I’m sobbing now.

    Like

  32. janey December 23, 2011 at 1:02 am

    MCL, may I quote you? “I love him even more for this.” Ya, me too, me toooo ♥

    Like

  33. Kariann1 December 23, 2011 at 4:14 am

    MCL, you have written such beautiful thoughts on this wonderful young man! David has an innocense about him and a good heart. May God bless him on his mission.

    “I wish could live to see David in his 40′s. I really believe he will still be performing.”

    joelhss, I posted my thoughts the day after the Finale and said David will be around 20 years from now. He is just so talented and has such a lovely voice. I even recommended that he take dancing lessons because he will have a Broadway musical production in his future.

    Watching the video brought tears to my eyes. American Idol has brought good singers and good people into our lives. David is both.

    Like

  34. Chickee December 23, 2011 at 4:15 pm

    When I hear David sing “Oh Holy Night” I feel closest to God. He embodies all that is good and kind in life. I wish only the best for David on his mission for his faith. David, your fans adore you and will be here for you throughout these long 2 years. God Speed David.

    Like

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

  1. Beaver Creek- Last MKOC Show Tonight- Maybe Last David’s Show till 2014 « David Archuleta Vietnam - December 21, 2011

    […] Source. GA_googleAddAttr("AdOpt", "1"); GA_googleAddAttr("Origin", "other"); GA_googleAddAttr("theme_bg", "ffffff"); GA_googleAddAttr("theme_text", "343434"); GA_googleAddAttr("theme_link", "990000"); GA_googleAddAttr("theme_border", "f2f6ee"); GA_googleAddAttr("theme_url", "ff0000"); GA_googleAddAttr("LangId", "1"); GA_googleAddAttr("Autotag", "entertainment"); GA_googleAddAttr("Autotag", "religion"); GA_googleAddAttr("Autotag", "books"); GA_googleAddAttr("Tag", "christmas-tour"); GA_googleAddAttr("Tag", "beaver-creek"); GA_googleAddAttr("Tag", "masterclass-lady"); GA_googleAddAttr("Tag", "my-kind-of-christmas-tour"); GA_googleFillSlot("wpcom_sharethrough"); Share this:TwitterFacebookRedditLinkedInStumbleUponEmailDiggPrintLike this:LikeBe the first to like this post. […]

    Like
  2. » MasterClassLady on David Archuleta and LDS Mission - December 22, 2011

    […] expressive voice.Please stop by and share the love in the comments thread. Don’t be a stranger.Go HERE to MasterClassLady.com Posted by ArchieFanDoc at 12:00 pmLeave a Reply Cancel reply […]

    Like
  3. » My MKoC Tour Recap Santa Rosa, Salt Lake City, Beaver Creek - December 27, 2011

    […] tears came while I was alone in the lobby the next morning, the day of the concert. I clicked on Masterclasslady’s post and didn’t get past the first sentence before the floodgates opened, “Not only does David […]

    Like