Don Nielsen is a“ preachers kid” from Eugene, Oregon and has been involved in music since his first solo at age 5. He sang in school choirs all thru junior high and high school, as well as being a trumpet player in several school bands. His love of music gave him the drive to teach himself how to play the piano and later studied voice and piano at Southwestern Assemblies of God University where he received his bachelor of science degree in music. Don has served in ministry as a worship leader, youth choir director, music pastor and running the sound and video equipment at many churches across the country. His willingness to follow God’ s call on his life is what lead him to Dallas and most recently lead him to the group Racing Gravity. Don, his two sons and his wife of 23 years are currently living in DeSoto, Texas.
Don first found his love for playing guitar when he was 14. He started his first band soon after and played in and around the NYC area where he was born and raised. Work brought him to Dallas Texas in 1984 where he continued to play in various bands and local venues. God captured and transformed his heart in 1990. Seeing music as a gift and wanting to offer it back in purity, he put his instruments away rather than continuing to play the same old way. This time was invested seeking the Lord and getting to know His intimate voice.
In 1994 God called together a group of men who were each waiting on His calling and formed Heartland. Don joyfully dusted off his strings which he had put down for four years and new music began to flow once again. God used Heartland to reach hungry hearts of all ages. Doors were opened in an amazing variety of venues often sharing the stage with other ministries such as BeBe Winans, Cindy Cruse and many others.
After Heartland, Don spent the next years playing guitar and singing at Covenant Church in Carrollton and River of Glory Church in Plano, Texas. He has contributed his talents to multiple CD recording projects and minstry conferences. His heart is to share the Joy he has come to know in Jesus which is the same passion that led him to join Racing Gravity. Don and his wife Bridey currently live in Lewisville, TX and call River of Glory of Plano, their church home.
16