Martha Erwin Rodger, an opera singer, pianist and music educator, of Roslyn Heights formerly of Port Washington, died unexpectedly at her home on Jan. 29, 2000. She was 87. Born in Mosheim, TN, she graduated from Tusculum College in nearby Greeneville where she later taught in the music department.

She received a full scholarship to the Juilliard School of Music in NYC after winning first prize in the Tennessee State Piano Competition. Also trained as a classical singer, Mrs. Rodger joined the Metropolitan Opera as a contralto after graduating from Juilliard. Her musical career also included work as a professional piano soloist and accompanist, a weekly radio show, many years as a classical vocalist and soloist and recordings of classical repertoire.

Later, moving to Port Washington, she became music director of the Vincent Smith School and later of the Greenvale School. For many years, she was the choir director of the First Methodist Church of Port Washington as well as the accompanist for the LI Gilbert and Sullivan Society. As well as her Tusculum and Juilliard degrees, she had a master's degree in music education from C.W. Post College.

For over 60 years Mrs. Rodger inspired her students as a music educator and loving teacher. A person of boundless energy and independence, she provided generations with a continuing love of music.

She is survived by her husband, Stuart J. Rodger; her daughter, Elizabeth Campbell of Sudbury, MA; her son, Erwin Rodger of Mattituck; daughter-in-law, Laurie Rodger; son-in-law Stephen Campbell; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Arrangements were made by the Austin F. Knowles Funeral Home, Port Washington. Funeral service at the United Methodist Church. Burial Nassau Knolls Cemetery. Donations in Mrs. Rodger's name may be made to: the Juilliard School Scholarship Fund, 60 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, Attn: Office of Development and Public Affairs.