“Maestro Leads Symphony to Crescendo of Bravos,” reads a headline in the Amarillo Globe Times following a concert by A. Clyde Roller. Indeed, acclaim follows his performances wherever he goes, whether in Alaska, Boston, or New Zealand.
A native of Oklahoma, Dr. Roller began his career as Principle Oboist with the Tulsa Philharmonic Orchestra, later joining the Oklahoma City Symphony in a similar capacity.
He attended the Eastman School of Music, graduating with the class of 1941. In 1963, he returned to Eastman to accept an appointment as Professor of Ensemble, a position he held until 1966. Subsequent appointments have included Resident Conductor of the Houston Symphony Orchestra and Conductor and Professor of Music at the University of Texas at Austin.
Equally at home in front of an ensemble of seasoned professionals or aspiring student musicians, Dr. Roller is able to elicit an uncommon unanimity of purpose, inspiring the highest musical standards. Always the champion of the best of all musical styles, he reaches large and diverse audiences by utilizing a varied repertoire, including traditional, contemporary, choral, opera, ballet, and popular selections. Because of Dr. Roller’s uncompromising musical integrity and unceasing dedication, the nation and world are considerably richer.
It is with understandable pride that the Eastman School of Music confers the Alumni Achievement Award upon A. Clyde Roller, distinguished conductor, dedicated teacher, and outstanding alumnus, in recognition of his many contributions to the art of music.
Rochester, New York
February 6, 1981