David A. Dunn

Written in perspective of David's nephew, Daniel Dunn:

My uncle Dave had a long, busy, big life. He was intelligent, inspiring to many, compassionate, passionate in his endeavors, loyal, and in his own way was extremely principled. His main passion in life was his music.

He started playing violin very young and became concertmaster in high school and won several competitions as a teenager. David also participated in the Southern California all State Orchestra. In young adulthood he continued his musical studies, participated in a number of musical endeavors to include recording a full-length album for the epic record label. Unfortunately, he also participated in a lot of alcohol and drugs during this time and lost much musical momentum, joining Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) at the age of 28 on December 24th 1970.

After achieving sobriety Dave moved to southern Oregon in 1973 and began a long career with the Rogue Valley Symphony. During this time, he worked many jobs to make ends meet. Dave also worked with the Rogue Music Theater, the Rogue Opera, the Central Oregon Community Symphony, the Oregon coast Music Festival. 1989 also saw his contribution of viola track to the album “Sacred Masterpieces for guitar and Violin” under the Edensong label.
During this time Dave also participated in solo and ensemble engagements and gave lessons in violin and viola. In 1978 Dave also began work as a counselor in the Alcohol Emergency Care unit in Josephine County and was credited with the ability to instantly connect with his clients.

I’m not sure when my Uncle started building and repairing violins, initially learning the craft from a maker in Bend, Oregon. Even in this endeavor he produced beauty in his instruments and the music they produced, allowing others to express themselves through the product of his heart, his mind, and his hands.

Memberships: Rogue Valley Symphony. the Rogue Music Theater, the Rogue Opera, the Central Oregon Community Symphony, and the the Oregon coast Music Festival.

Volunteer Work: Counselor in the Alcohol Emergency Care unit in Josephine County and was credited with the ability to instantly connect with his clients.

Hobbies: Making friends and helping others.

He is survived by his nephew, Daniel Dunn, and niece, Cinthia Dunn.

A Celebration of Life will be held 3:00 p.m., Thursday, April 1, 2021 at Hull & Hull Chapel.