Performances + Events
BSO x NEC Alliance
Launched in February 2026, the Boston Symphony Orchestra x New England Conservatory Alliance formalizes and expands on the artistic collaboration between these two iconic institutions.
Through an integrated approach to artist cultivation, content development, and shared use of campuses and venues, this first-of-its-kind alliance between a major symphony orchestra and a leading conservatory fuels innovation and excellence in orchestral music in Boston and beyond.
Leadership
Our Shared Vision
“This alliance represents the future of classical music. While our institutions have been deeply connected for over a century, we are now creating intentional pathways for musicians at every career stage, from our youngest Prep students to our most advanced artists, to learn from and perform alongside BSO musicians. This is truly transformative for the entire musical community.”
– NEC President Andrea Kalyn
“In launching our new alliance, we are committing to partnering in a variety of ways that will benefit students, musicians, and audiences alike. As a proud NEC graduate and as a steward of the Boston Symphony’s legacy, I couldn’t be more excited to bring these two great institutions closer together, expanding our reach and impact in ways that are only possible through this alliance.”
– BSO President and CEO Chad Smith ‘95 Tufts/NEC, ‘98 MM, ‘25 hon. DM
History
Generations of Collaboration
The BSO and NEC have a long and storied history of collaboration. This begins with the people who have called both institutions home. The NEC faculty has always included many BSO musicians (131 over the years), and, currently, 50 members of the BSO have at least one NEC affiliation — whether as an alumnus, a current faculty member, or a parent of an NEC Prep or College student.
The BSO x NEC Alliance will strengthen programming and create new opportunities for students and artists to develop their talents and collaborate with world-class musicians across diverse settings.
Upcoming Programs
Expanding Our Horizons
Through the alliance, BSO patrons will experience fresh programming featuring emerging talent, while NEC students and alumni will gain access to one of the world’s great orchestras.
The alliance will also benefit the broader musical community through youth programs, professional development, and shared use of Boston’s most prestigious performance venues.
- Young Artist Spotlight Series to showcase four NEC artists per season across BSO platforms.
- BSO Guest Soloist Pathway for composers and conductors to engage with NEC through masterclasses, lectures, and rehearsals.
- Chamber Music Mentorship with Boston Symphony Chamber players to nurture structured collaboration and coaching opportunities at NEC.
- Music Industry Speaker Series at NEC’s Jordan Hall featuring visiting managers, artists, and industry leaders.
- A joint Honors Youth Chorus, offered at no cost to families, composed of local students ages 8-13 from the Greater Boston area’s children’s choirs, to receive exceptional choral training through NEC Prep’s Choral Department in preparation for one-of-a-kind performance opportunities with the BSO.
- Ongoing collaborations include the “What I Hear” series, which features free, composer-curated chamber music programs by NEC students and conversations with BSO guest composers and artistic staff.
Apple Music Playlist
Listen to the Alliance
Hear a selection of orchestral music performed by the Boston Symphony Orchestra with NEC choral ensembles.
