On July 16 and 17, The Walt Disney Family Museum was filled with the vibrant, ragtime stylings of Rod Miller, Disneyland's first and only full-time pianist. For nearly four decades, Rod charmed guests of Disneyland with his innovative talent and delightful personality. Although he has retired from the Happiest Place on Earth, Rod effortlessly proved to our museum's guests that he not only still has that familiar ability, but that he still knows how to entertain and captivate a crowd.
Using the rolls of a player piano as his guide, Rod, who grew up on a farm in Staples, Minnesota, taught himself how to play the piano, his first learned song being “I Can't Give You Anything but Love.” At the age of 19, Rod left home and moved to California, where he was eventually recruited to play at Disneyland. Although Miller was at first unsure of the job, after some negotiation, he agreed to play. Stationed at Coca-Cola® Corner, Rod (who, ironically, detests soda) would go on to play at Disneyland five days a week from 1969 until 2005, becoming a favorite attraction and familiar face. Thirty-six years and a large fan base later, Rod would retire, leaving behind an undeniable legacy.
Stationed in The Walt Disney Family Museum's lobby for two days, Rod played countless songs, ranging from classic ragtime tunes, such as “Alexander's Ragtime Band,” and “Happy Days are Here Again,” to stylized Disney songs, including “When You Wish Upon a Star,” “Once Upon a Dream,” and a medley of songs from Mary Poppins. Aside from his playing, Rod dedicated much of his time at the Museum to storytelling. He shared tales of Disneyland's early years, both from his own memories and from charming stories told to him by those who had worked before him. He discussed his pianos (he went through 23 of them during his time at Disneyland), his interactions with his fellow cast members, and his most memorable fans. He focused on comical, endearing recollections, and spoke highly of Walt, a man who he knows much about.
While Rod's stories were a hit with museum guests, perhaps the most touching tales told were those revealed by the guests themselves. Endless memories of Rod's time at Disneyland were shared by his spectators, and many even brought with them photos of themselves with Rod from decades ago. From vague memories of walking past him on Main Street to detailed accounts of conversations from the past, each guest had something special to share with Rod—a man who, with his undeniable talent and charming personality, has both entertained and inspired Disney fans since 1969. Although Rod is greatly missed at Disneyland's Coke® Corner, his familiar style and timeless character brought his guests back in time, as one museum guest sighed, “Rod, I feel like I should be drinking a Coke right now.”
Kelly Richman
Volunteer at The Walt Disney Family Museum