In Memoriam: James Martin Miles
James Martin Miles (1944-2020) was a dear friend and fervent supporter of the SIPF, integral to the advisory committee since its inception in 2008. A lover of classical music, a triathlete and swimmer, a traveler and explorer, Jim was an essential and active member of the artistic world in Western Washington and a member of several artistic boards, including the Northwest Council of the Chopin Foundation of the United States, among others. He left behind a great number of close friends and family, including two boys about whom he was very proud.
Having led a professional life in law, Jim was admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1973. He retired as attorney with the U.S. Dept. of Health, Education & Welfare (now the Dept. of Health & Human Services). He served in Washington, DC from 1970-74, and then in the Seattle, WA regional office from 1974 to retirement, specializing in civil rights & Native American law. During high school and college summers, Jim coached youth swim teams and continued to do so well into his later years.
The SIPF is proud and honored to name the James Miles Memorial Prize in his memory. Professional and Collegiate artists have the opportunity to compete for this award, $750 additional cash, and a potential future professional concert engagement — one award for a participant of either the Collegiate or Professional Artist category, at the discretion of SIPF President, Dr. Ivona Kaminska.
