Longtime Los Angeles Dodgers Organist Dies

It’s a sad day in Los Angeles for the Hefley family and Dodgers fanbase. The team won the World Series when Hefley took over as the lead organist in 1988. Ever since that unforgettable season, she had provided the Dodgers with their soundtrack, which was woven into the club's fabric.

Much like legendary commentator Vin Scully, Hefley was  integral to the game day experience and stadium allure. She could play over 2,000 songs from memory, and those mesmerizing organ notes echoed throughout the Chavez Ravine for generations.

Perhaps Hefley’s most iconic song was “Master of the House” from the musical Les Misérables. She would play this song when noted musical theater buff Orel Hershiser pitched. The master of the Dodgers’ clubhouse went on to win his first and only Cy Young that year.

Hefley’s death reminds us of baseball’s scope and the many special people in this sport. 

The music may not be your top priority at a ballgame, but it is a crucial, complementary piece to the on-field action. It’s part of the in-person spectacle to hear songs like “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” and experience baseball in its purest form.

Rest in peace to Nancy Bea Hefley, who gave countless fans world-class organ performances daily.