Lela Guymon Christensen was born and raised in Provo, Utah. She played the flute in the Provo High School band and orchestra and also sang with the a-capella choir. She attended Brigham Young University where she majored in music. Lela sang with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir for 20 years. As a member of the choir, she was presented with a Presidential Citation at the commencement exercises at Brigham Young University in April of 1983. Each member received this honorary doctorate degree. It was the first of its kind to be awarded to a group. Lela is the author of the book, “The Spirit of Music-a Missionary Tool”, a book about the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Lela has taught piano for over 55 years.

Kurt Christensen and his wife, Lela, have lived in the Bountiful, Utah area for over 40 years. Lela has served many years as chorister and organist in her community and church. She taught her eight children how to play the piano and other instruments. Kurt and Lela’s family have performed as a stage band, playing and singing throughout the community. All eight children are college graduates. Music has always been an integral part of their family.

• Creator of the “Pick, Play, Say, Jump Around” Method of teaching music. Also, claping and counting of double rhythm patterns for Bass and Treble clef.
• Discovery of “The Key To Student Motivation” for learning to play music, specifically the piano
• Currently Hospitality Chairman, UTMA (Utah Music Teachers Assocation), Davis County Chapter
• Piano instructor for over 55 years
• Author of the book “The Spirit of Music-a Missionary Tool”
• Sang Alto in the Mormon Tabernacle Choir for twenty years
• Presidential Citation from Brigham Young University with an Honorary Doctorate Degree
• Stake Music Director For 15 years
• Regional Music Director 2 years
• Director of 5 Ward Choirs
• Arranged music for family stage band
• Played flute in band and orchestra
• Organist for several organizations
• Daughters of Utah Pioneers Chaplin