Terry's first professional live performance was when he played drums with his band at age 11 in the gymnasium of his grammar school for the entire student body.

His father, who organized the performance, was told by the principal that the only way it could happen is if Terry joined the musicians union. Terry did so at the age of 11.

Featured in the band were vocalist Sheila Jordan, Terry's brother Barry Miles on piano, guitarist Harry Leahey, bassist Tom Anthony, and saxophonist Bob "Mousie" Miller.