Pyrogie / Springtime Polka

Artists

Album Info

Release Date: 1963

Label: V Records

ALBERT J. MILLER d. Thursday, September 18, 2014 It was one of those beautiful serene autumn days, when Albert Joseph Miller, or "The one and only leader of the Al Miller Band, decided to call it a day and take his saxophone up into the clouds. His unique style of music brought joy and happiness to thousands of Manitobans throughout the decades. Now, his calming voice will be heard amongst the angels and departed friends and family that will be there to greet him. Al sang a peaceful last song at Seven Oaks Hospital Thursday morning after celebrating his 90th birthday only a few months ago... Al served his country during the Second World War, then returned to serve all the people of Winnipeg with his myriad of bands over the last 70 years. He was an institution in every banquet hall, legion, retirement home or every other "live" entertainment venue that the city had to offer and beyond. He played more weddings and joined more couples than most priests.. His soothing voice and knowledge of the old standards made many people cry tears of joy when he would take them down memory lane... Irreplaceable, would be the word that comes to mind when we think of "AL" and how he will be missed. Al also served as the president of the Legion on Main street for many years as well.. But his gift to mankind was his ability to make people sing along and forget their cares, if only for a few minutes or hours.. There was hardly a week that would go by, when he wasn't stopped in the street by someone, who would shake his hand and remind him that he played that person's wedding or social event and how he brought them joy... Making others happy was Al's true gift and he did it all his life. His legacy is a simple one.. A self taught musician that followed a dream to be a vehicle to bring happiness to all through his music... And this he did to perfection... There will be no service for "Al Miller". He prefers to be remembered through his mellow sax, his gentle voice and the songs he played for all..

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 20, 2014