Christine Hepworth

Don Lee Royster was a native of Filer, Idaho. He attended the University of Idaho where he received his Bachelor’s degree. He graduated from Yale University with both Masters and Doctorate degrees. He was a talented pianist and organist and a published music historian. He also studied music at the Sorbonne in Paris, France. After he finished his studies, Don toured Europe as a professional accompanist. Later, Don returned to Idaho and established a private piano studio. He was a gifted teacher. He had the rare intuitive ability to communicate what a student needed to be successful. His focus was always on the student, never on himself. His creative teaching methods were as unique as each individual. He truly was a friend to all. For more than twenty-five years, Don generously used his gifts to build a culture of musical excellence that blessed his Southern Idaho community.