Today is the birthday of Moishe (Millstein) Miller (June 4, 1917 – October 23, 2004), better known as Robert Merrill, one of the greatest operatic baritones of the 20th century.Robert Merrill made his Metropolitan Opera debut as Germont on Dec. 15, 1945, and celebrated his 500th performance there on March 5, 1973. He remained on the Met roster until 1976.
Robert Merrill was probably one of the most recognizable names outside the world's opera houses because of his lifelong enthusiasm for baseball. Beginning in 1969, he followed a tradition that lasted three decades, singing the season-opener of The Star-Spangled Banner at Yankee Stadium. Robert Merrill was the first person ever to sing the National Anthem and throw out the first ball at Yankee Stadium for the Yanks home opener in 1986.
Robert Merrill was honoured with the National Medal of Arts in 1993.
His epitaph states: Like a bursting celestial star, he showered his family and the world with love, joy, and beauty. Encore please.
Trivia bit: Robert Merrill was a stutter.
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