Contact: Eva Mowry, Public Relations & Marketing
E: evam@charlottesymphony.org
P: 704-714-5114

For Immediate Release                                                                                                 

Charlotte Symphony Tubist Retires
David Mills an integral part of the CSO since 1977

November 4, 2011- The Principal Tuba player of the Charlotte Symphony has announced his retirement after 35 years in the orchestra. A native of Albemarle, North Carolina, David Mills joined the Charlotte Symphony in 1977. He studied at the University of Miami, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill the Manhattan Conservatory and the Institute of Advanced Musical Studies in Montreux. His primary teachers include Constance Weldon, Toby Hanks, Mel Culbertson and Robert Tucci.

Mr. Mills performed a variety of roles during his time in the orchestra, including soloist, narrator and youth orchestra coach. He also served part-time as the Assistant Librarian from 1980-1992 and Principal CSO librarian from 1993-2011. Though no longer joining the Symphony onstage, he will continue to be a part of the orchestra and begin working as the full-time orchestra librarian this weekend.

In 2007 he received the first-ever Sally Ann Hall Spirit of the Symphony award, an honor bestowed on individuals who demonstrate commitment and respect for the CSO and actively work to better the organization.
 
“It is impossible to adequately state here just how much David has dedicated himself to the Charlotte Symphony - both as a musician, and an educator - and how much he has provided the CSO for over three decades,” said President and Executive Director Jonathan Martin.

“While we will miss him in those roles, we are very pleased that David will continue with the CSO, not only in his role as full time librarian, but also in the post as one of the CSO's most recognized ambassadors for the organization throughout our community.”

Mr. Mills resides in Dilworth with his wife, Stacey, middle school band director at Charlotte Country Day, and their two sons. Stacey, David and their two sons have enjoyed many years of performing as the “Mills Family Brass.”  

"That sea of faces anxious, excited, contemplative, exuberant... I carry that with me,” said Mr. Mills. “And to have played so many years with such great musicians! The tuba chair is the best seat in the house. I will be supporting my colleagues from backstage and I know your new tuba player will find the love and support in our community that welcomed and sustained me for 35 years."  

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