John Longhurst, a distinguished and accomplished organist, devoted a substantial portion of his illustrious career to the esteemed Tabernacle Choir, a tenure spanning from 1977 to 2007.
During his extensive and fruitful tenure with the Tabernacle Choir, Longhurst made numerous significant contributions, including the composition of the iconic and beloved Latter-day Saint hymn "I Believe in Christ", a testament to his remarkable musical talent and creativity.
In addition to his impressive compositional endeavors, Longhurst played a pivotal and influential role in the design and development of the Conference Center organ, a masterpiece of sound and craftsmanship that has become an integral part of the Church's worship and cultural heritage.
Furthermore, Longhurst is also the author of the comprehensive and informative book "Magnum Opus: The Building of the Schoenstein Organ at the Conference Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints", a meticulous and detailed account of the organ's construction and significance, which provides valuable insights into the art and craft of organ building and its role in the Church's sacred music tradition.
Longhurst's early life was marked by a childhood spent on a ranch situated in the picturesque vicinity of Placerville, California, where he resided until the untimely passing of his father in the year 1949. Following this devastating loss, his family made the significant decision to relocate to Salt Lake City, Utah, a city that would eventually become a significant part of his life's journey.
As he matured, Longhurst's spiritual aspirations led him to serve as a missionary in the Eastern Atlantic States Mission, a role that not only deepened his understanding of his faith but also provided him with invaluable life experiences. Moreover, his remarkable vocal talents soon found an outlet as a member of the esteemed Tabernacle Choir, an organization he joined in the mid-1960s.
Notable organist and educator, Longhurst, embarked upon a prestigious academic journey, culminating in the attainment of a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in music from the esteemed University of Utah. Furthermore, he went on to earn a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the revered Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester, a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft.
Throughout his academic tenure, Longhurst was fortunate enough to be mentored by some of the most renowned organ teachers of his time, including the illustrious Alexander Schreiner, the accomplished David Craighead, and the respected Robert Noehren.
Nancy Meldrim, a native of Syracuse, New York, tied the knot with Longhurst in the historic Salt Lake Temple in the year 1969, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership.
