Donald Jon Vaughn
1936 -
Don Vaughn, organist, taught
at La Sierra University for 32 years before retiring in 1998. A Professor of
Music at the time of his retirement, he also served as organist at the university
church for almost as many years. He was recognized at the university's
graduation weekend worship service the year he retired for his many years of
service and for his work in constructing the church organ.
Don’s musical training began
as a seven-year-old, when he learned to play the piano by listening to and
reading piano player rolls. His fascination with the organ began at the San
Francisco General Conference in 1950. When he returned home, he approached
Harold B. Hannum, organist at then La Sierra College
about taking lessons. While at first rebuffed, he persisted. The study and
association with Hannum profoundly influenced him and
led to a career in music.
Vaughn graduated from La
Sierra in 1960 with a degree in music. After completing an M.Mus. at
Redlands University and teaching at Columbia Union College, now Washington
Adventist University, he returned to teach organ at LSU and serve as organist
in the college church in 1966. He was principal organist during the 1970
General Conference Session at Atlantic City, New Jersey.
Beginning in the early 1970s,
Vaughn began rebuilding and expanding the La Sierra College Church organ with
the assistance of many students. The resulting instrument, now valued at $1.5
million, was named in his honor during the 1998 graduation weekend. He and his
wife, Elizabeth Ann Lamoreaux, also a musician,
continue their music ministry in Pennsylvania, where they now reside.
ds/2003
Sources:
Interview with Donald Vaughn, 1998; Review
and Herald, 14 June 1970, 2, and 25 June -2 July 1970, 15; Columbia Union Visitor, 26 September
1963, 3; Pacific Union Recorder, 20
February 1967, 8; Organ Brochure, 1970s; 1978 LSU Yearbook, Meteor, 1978.