I was given my first guitar as a Christmas present in 1959. I've been a lifelong student of the instrument since. I destroyed a few dozen Chet Atkins phonograph records in an attempt to learn to "pick" like Mister Guitar. I feel compelled to add that I fell woefully short of my goal!
That having been said, I began playing in a danceband when I was 15 years old. My family relocated shortly thereafter, separating me from my bandmates. Soon, however, a new friend invited me to accompany him to a revival meeting to hear an evangelist play guitar. While I wasn't terribly excited at the thought of church, getting to hear a good guitarist was just enough enticement to cause me to say "yes." That night my life was changed forever. I surrendered my heart to Jesus and made Him LORD.
As a side note, the evangelist was John Stallings. John and Juda, his wife, are still active in the ministry. I recently located John and spoke with him for the first time in nearly 46 years! It was a blessing to be able to thank John for his faithful service to the the LORD. John is well known in the world of gospel music as an award-winning songwriter. Included in the dozens of songs he has written are Learning to Lean, and Love Grew Where the Blood Fell.
After becoming a Christian, my musical venues changed from clubs and dance halls to churches and Christian gatherings. As a teenager, I played guitar for The Sharretts, a trio of brothers that sang contemporary Christian music and later travelled the world as professional gospel singers. I also played for evangelists that visited our area, including Jimmy Swaggart; and Jimmy Snow, son of Hank Snow and host of the Grand Ole Gospel Time at the Grand Ole Opry. Later, I played with The Gardners, a trio featuring Landy Gardner, currently the choir director at Christ Church in Nashville. Landy's choir is frequently featured on many of Bill Gather's television specials. I travelled several years with the Crossmen, a southern gospel quartet, and recently have begun performing with a Redemption Road, a country gospel band. I also enjoy performing as a soloist whenever possible.
I've been married to the same wonderful girl since 1969. We have two great children, and four beautiful grandchildren. The LORD has truly blessed our family.
Ron Vanover
