[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 79 (Wednesday, May 18, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E737]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         IN RECOGNITION OF MAESTRO ALVIN MILLS OF SANTA MONICA

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                             HON. TED LIEU

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 18, 2016

  Mr. TED LIEU of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor 
Maestro Alvin Mills of Santa Monica, California who is retiring on May 
15, 2016 at the age of 94 after being the conductor of the Brentwood 
Westwood Symphony Orchestra for 63 years.
  I want to commend Maestro Mills for his commitment to bringing joy 
and music to thousands of people who are not able to afford to go to 
the Philharmonic concerts.
  Maestro Mills began studying violin at the age of 8 and later studied 
with Pierre Monteux at the Ecole Monteux in Hancock, Maine. As a 
violinist he performed with the Kansas City Philharmonic and the 
Hollywood Bowl Symphony. In 1949 he became the Founder and Conductor of 
the Lompoc California Symphony.
  Maestro Mills founded the Brentwood Westwood Symphony Orchestra in 
1953. He also served as its conductor and musical director since its 
inception, and has championed the cause of keeping alive the arts and 
classical music by giving free quality classical symphonic concerts in 
these communities.
  Maestro Mills also championed the youth in Los Angeles as a music 
teacher and with a contest that he started 30 years ago entitled, ``The 
Artists of Tomorrow Competition'' which gives the opportunity for 6 to 
7 young artists who win the contest each year to receive scholarships 
and perform with the orchestra. Many of them have gone on to successful 
careers in music.
  Through his inspiration, talents and leadership, Maestro Mills has 
exemplified the best ideals of community service. I am proud to honor 
Maestro Mills of Brentwood, California and thank him for his dedication 
to culturally enriching the residents of the 33rd Congressional 
District.

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