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July 1, 2006
TO: Roger MacNeil
Dear Mr. MacNeil:
It is with great pleasure that I write in support of Professor Raymond Miller’s nomination for the 2006 Cornell Runestad Lifetime Achievement Award.
Professor Miller has a reputation as a fine choral director and musician. He dedicated his career to choral directing and has left an indelible mark on the State of Nebraska. Perhaps Ray is most known for envisioning and founding the Scarlet & Cream Singers in 1973. These “goodwill singing ambassadors” have become an institution and each year their performances delight audiences of every age throughout Nebraska and the United States.
Ray didn’t just create the Scarlet & Cream Singers ensemble; he perfected it. In his typical fashion, he demanded the highest quality out of the performers, out of the University – and out of himself. He painstakingly auditioned and selected the performers and programmed each year’s repertoire, careful to select or commission musical arrangements that were just right and a repertoire that would please varied audiences. His vast knowledge of musical history, styles and performers was critical in developing a fresh program each year.
During Professor Miller’s distinguished career at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, he also directed several choirs (including the Varsity Men’s Glee Club, Woman’s Chorale and others) and taught conducing, music appreciation and studio voice lessons for many, many students. Whether in his studio or in a choral setting, he commanded the absolute respect of his students. From dynamics to style to pitch, his teaching style was meticulous – always precise and clear. It was often hard to comprehend how he could possess so much knowledge about everything that was musical.
Ray cared deeply for his students and did whatever he could to further their development as musical performers and educators. His personal coaching and encouragement helped many students realize that a career in music was possible. This is perhaps Ray’s greatest legacy. Dozens and dozens of Ray’s students graduated from college and pursued musical careers. And today, all across America, from small-town theatres and cruise ships to Las Vegas or Broadway; it’s not at all uncommon to find Ray’s singers and dancers on stage. Many of these performers rightfully attribute their successful careers to their association with Ray at while at UNL.
I was privileged to know Ray during my years as a member of the Scarlet & Cream Singers in the early 1990s. I know personally the tremendous effect Ray has had on the lives of his students over the years. Ray has taught me more about music and musicianship than anyone and he’s also taught me a great deal about life. Like many of his students, I look to Ray as role model, mentor and friend. In addition to musical development, Ray had a marvelous ability to help students with on-the-mark advice for college, careers, and life.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln was well served by Professor Miller. His students, including me, especially benefited from having had the privilege of knowing him and working under him. He is a rare treasure and has left an amazing mark on choral music in Nebraska and beyond. He is highly deserving of the 2006 Cornell Runestad Lifetime Achievement Award.
Please contact me if you have any questions or would like additional information.
Best regards,
Michael Zeleny
UNL Asst. Vice Chancellor for Research
Go to the LAST letter (before the SPEECH page):
Award Recommendation Letter by Barb & Mark Thornburg
c-d-miller@neb.rr.com
