Boston-based saxophonist Cercie Miller has led her own jazz ensemble since 1986, and since that time she has picked up numerous accolades and a truckload of fans. Among the honors she has received is a nomination from the Boston Music Awards in the category of Outstanding Local Jazz Act. Her quartet includes drummer Bob Savine, bass player Dave Clark, and pianist Tim Ray. In addition to her work as a performer and recording artist, Miller also composes. She has taught her craft and related topics at such institutions as Northeastern University, where she was an instructor on the history of jazz from 1994 to 1995 and again during classes held in 2000. She previously covered the same subject as a teaching assistant at Harvard University. She has been a saxophone instructor at Wellesley College since 1997, and has maintained a private studio since the early '80s. Her own education includes instruction with Joseph Allard at the New England Conservatory. A grant from the National Endowment of the Arts led Miller to spend time as a student of saxophonists Jerry Bergonzi and David Liebman. Miller frequently works with Patty Larkin, and has contributed to a pair of the singer/songwriter's albums. In addition, the saxophonist is part of the group that backs Boston-based singer Lisa Thorson. Miller's performance credits include the rock band Girls' Night Out, which she helped found, and the avant-garde Your Neighborhood Saxophone Quartet, which she also helped establish. Like Miller, Larkin was also a featured performer in Girls' Night Out, which included Alizon Lissance, Myanna Pontoppidan, Didi Stewart, Sandy Martin, and Kathy Burkly. ~ Linda Seida, Rovi