Take Two: Talented couple young at heart
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Donna and Russ Miller were teenagers playing in bands when they met. Years later they’re still playing and singing together, and they’re still young at heart.
They’ll give a program of popular songs at noon Oct. 11, at First Lutheran Church in downtown Johnstown.
At 16, Donna began playing drums for country and swing bands and provided backup vocals. She also played for the country recording artist Joe Maphis, guitar soloist for the Bonanza theme song, and for the albums he recorded with Merle Travis.
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Russ, who plays a variety of instruments, began his musical journey at 12 as a student of U.S. Army Band leader and composer Thomas F. Darcy. At age 14, he became the featured trumpet soloist with the Johnstown Youth Symphony. He continued his formal training at Shenandoah Conservatory of Music in Virginia, where he played baroque trumpet and performed with the traveling jazz ensemble and brass band.
After their marriage the Millers formed a four-piece band, playing Big Band standards, swing, blues, country and rock ‘n’ roll. Russ’ first CD, "Backyard Boogie Ballads & Blues,"features blues, swing and gospel.
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“They range from the whimsical to tunes that have a more edgy, introspective slant,” he said.
The song "Retired School Teacher Blues"comes from Russ’ former occupation, a special education teacher for 30 years. His second CD, "Let It Rain," includes contemporary Christian songs.
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A light lunch will follow the program. There is no charge. The Tuesday Noon Recital Series is financed by contributions.
This article originally appeared on The Daily American: First Christian Church concert series features
