Laten Miller was born in Eunice, Louisiana on July 3rd, 1928. He was inspired to play Cajun music by his father Henry, who played accordion. Laten chose to play the fiddle instead. Following a move to Lake Charles, he performed in numerous bands including the Louisiana Travelers, Lake Charles Ramblers, Lake Charles Playboys, Sundown Playboys, and the Midnight Ramblers. Some of the musicians Laten played with were Jake Broussard, Ron Miller, Harry Miller, Phil Menard, Cliff Newman, Darrell Higginbothem, among others. In addition to his performances with local bands, he was productive also playing for charitable events, school programs, nursing homes, church functions, and CFMA charity programs. As a teacher, he taught several students how to play the fiddle. Perhaps his biggest contribution to Cajun music came via his woodworking skills where he repaired numerous fiddles and accordions. He also constructed several fiddles and built many accordions under his “Cajun Classic “ label. He was very instrumental with keeping the Cajun music going in the Lake Charles area through his luthier skills back in the it’s heyday. (Compiled by Neal G)
