Tantara Records: The Musical Voice of Brigham Young University
Based in Provo, Utah, Tantara Records serves as the dedicated recording label for Brigham Young University (BYU). Operated by the BYU School of Music, the label acts as a professional platform to showcase and preserve the diverse musical output of the university's talented students, faculty, and ensembles.
The primary mission of Tantara is to promote the musical works associated with BYU. This includes recordings from various vocal and instrumental ensembles, as well as the original compositions and performances of faculty members who serve as artists, directors, or composers.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1993 by K. Newell Dayley.
- Parent Organization: Brigham Young University (BYU).
- Location: Provo, Utah, U.S.
- Genres: Choral, classical, contemporary, jazz, a capella, and world music.
- Core Purpose: Promoting BYU musical works and faculty compositions.
Origins and Evolution
Tantara Records was conceptualized by K. Newell Dayley, who served as the chair of the BYU School of Music at the time. Dayley envisioned the label as a musical equivalent to a university press, ensuring the institution had control over its own intellectual and artistic output.
The catalyst for the label's official creation was a dispute over publication costs. When BYU sought to publish the album An American Tradition of Folk Hymns, the university faced non-standard rates from external music publishers. This prompted the decision to establish an in-house label to avoid such financial hurdles and maintain creative autonomy.
Artistic Scope and Partnerships
Tantara Records manages a vast catalog that spans multiple genres, from traditional classical and choral works to modern jazz and world music. The label is particularly well-known for publishing the works of BYU's premier vocal groups, including the BYU Singers, BYU Concert Choir, BYU Men's Chorus, BYU Women's Chorus, and the a capella groups Vocal Point and Noteworthy.
Beyond vocal music, Tantara distributes recordings from the university's various orchestras, bands, and instrumental ensembles. The label also plays a critical role in the broader LDS (Latter-day Saint) musical community through two key initiatives:
- The Heritage Endowment: An operation dedicated to promoting the works of major LDS composers.
- The Barlow Endowment: Tantara serves as the official distribution arm for this organization.
Leadership and Management
The label's professional standards have been maintained by a succession of experienced producers. Benjamin R. Fales, a 2002 BYU graduate, served as the senior producer for Tantara and held the role of General Manager of the BYU Music Group from 2010 until 2025.
In 2025, leadership transitioned to Zach Collier, who assumed the roles of General Manager and Senior Music Producer for the BYU Music Group.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1993 |
| Founder | K. Newell Dayley |
| Parent Company | Brigham Young University |
| Headquarters | Provo, Utah |
| Key Genres | Choral, Classical, Jazz, A Capella, World Music |
| Official Website | www.tantararecords.com |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of Tantara Records?
Tantara Records exists to promote the musical works of Brigham Young University, including recordings by its vocal and instrumental ensembles and the compositions of its faculty.
Who founded Tantara Records and why?
It was founded in 1993 by K. Newell Dayley. The label was created to function like a university press and was specifically prompted by high, non-standard rates charged by outside publishers for the album An American Tradition of Folk Hymns.
Which BYU vocal groups are published by Tantara?
The label publishes works by the BYU Singers, BYU Concert Choir, BYU Men's Chorus, BYU Women's Chorus, Vocal Point, and Noteworthy.
What is Tantara's relationship with the Barlow Endowment?
Tantara Records serves as the distribution arm for the Barlow Endowment.
Who is the current General Manager of the BYU Music Group?
As of 2025, Zach Collier is the General Manager and Senior Music Producer for the BYU Music Group.