April 22, 2019
Patron feature: Bill and Rhoda Ann Miller
I think giving to something that you love, and we love Lyric, has a lot of rewards.
We recently sat down with Bill and Rhoda Ann Miller, longtime subscribers and members of the Near North Chapter, as well as the Overture Society. Bill and Rhoda Ann started with single operas and condensed subscriptions, but in 1993, decided to become full season subscribers because according to Rhoda Ann, "it was simply too fabulous!" not to include everything. The love of opera for Rhoda Ann began as a teenager after experiencing the music of Monteverdi, which prompted her to listen more with her mother as opera was broadcast on the radio, and of course, on vinyl 78’s. Bill became an opera lover through Rhoda Ann. Their first opera together was Carmen, the first with their daughter was The Cunning Little Vixen, and another favorite is Rigoletto. Being members for many years, Bill and Rhoda Ann have deepened their love and appreciation for opera, finding it a never-ending opportunity to learn more about and enjoy this most beautiful art form. Bill remarks, “I always tell friends from my youth that don’t know opera that it’s the greatest show on earth.” It is because of this love that Bill and Rhoda Ann Miller make annual gifts to Lyric and are allowing their gift to continue by naming Lyric as a beneficiary of their estate plan.
I think it’s the duty of our generation to make it available for future generations.
While planning their estate, Bill and Rhoda Ann believed that after taking care of family there could be nothing better than leaving a gift to Lyric. They mention, "it’s one of those matters where you can be assured where the money is going, as your contribution goes towards making Lyric better". Rhoda Ann adds, “You know when you’re supporting Lyric, you’re supporting all the arts: singing, drama, costuming…everyone involved benefits”. They firmly believe that if opera is to survive, that it is the responsibility of the audience to ensure its future. When Bill advises his own clients about estate planning, he likes to bring up supporting charitable causes, especially with fans of Lyric. Rhoda Ann notes that seeing the results in your lifetime is an important thing, but also knowing that you’ve contributed to something that’s bigger than you are is special. Ultimately, the legacy that Bill and Rhoda Ann are leaving is a lifetime of loving opera, and the promise of opera for those who come next.