Press Release
It is with sadness that South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) announces the passing of Miles Hoffman. Hoffman served as a host and writer for SC Public Radio from 2011 until his passing on Aug. 18.
Hoffman's radio segment titled A Minute with Miles was a national production of SC Public Radio initiated in 2011 and showcased his insightful commentary on classical music. Hoffman's musical commentary, Coming to Terms, was a weekly favorite throughout the United States from 1989 to 2002 on NPR's Performance Today. In 2002, he began serving as the classical music commentator for NPR's flagship news program, Morning Edition— a program with a national audience of approximately 14 million people.
Hoffman’s impact was not limited to the airwaves. His written contributions can be seen in publications such as The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post and The Wilson Quarterly. His first book, The NPR Classical Music Companion: An Essential Guide for Enlightened Listening, was also published in 1997. He recently published a new book, Inside the World of Classical Music: 205 Illuminating Mini-Essays, which is a collection of his A Minute with Miles segments.
Hoffman’s journey in the world of music was marked by numerous achievements and contributions. He regularly toured the U.S. as the founder and violist of the American Chamber Players. He also appeared as viola soloist with orchestras across the country, and his solo performances on YouTube have received more than 700,000 views. He was also a Virginia I. Norman Distinguished Visiting Professor of Chamber Music at the Schwob School of Music in Columbus, GA. Additionally, Hoffman was a distinguished teacher, clinician and former dean of the Petrie School of Music at Converse College. He presented countless master classes, workshops, children's programs and other educational programs at schools, colleges and conservatories around the country. Hoffman has also been a featured lecturer and keynote speaker for orchestras, chamber music series, festivals and various professional organizations/conferences.
Hoffman was a graduate of Yale University and the Juilliard School. In 2003, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Centenary College of Louisiana in recognition of his achievements as a performer and educator.
Miles Hoffman’s memory will live on through the melodies he shared and the knowledge he imparted. An archive of previously recorded segments of A Minute with Miles will be available on the SC Public Radio website. Our hearts go out to his family, friends and all who were touched by his remarkable presence
