Photos: Commencement 2018

New England Conservatory conferred four honorary degrees during its 147th Commencement Exercises on May 20, 2018. The recipients of the honorary Doctor of Music were Edgar Meyer, Joseph L. Bower, Herbie Hancock, and Peter Lyman Row.

Edgar Meyer is an accomplished bassist, multi-instrumentalist, and composer who is an artist member of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and Visiting Professor of Double Bass at the Curtis Institute of Music. Mr. Meyer's degree was presented by Hankus Netsky, co-chair of NEC's Contemporary Improvisation department.

Joseph L. Bower is an expert in general management at Harvard University and has been a member of the NEC family for over 32 years as a member of the Board of Trustees and Board of Overseers. Mr. Bower's degree was presented by Board Chair Kennett Burnes.

Herbie Hancock is a world-renowned jazz composer and performer. His career began when he was discovered by Donald Byrd and his music has since won multiple Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and many more accolades. Mr. Hancock's degree was presented by Ken Schaphorst, chair of NEC's Jazz department.

Peter Lyman Row was a beloved member of NEC faculty 1976 until his death in April 2018, also serving as Dean and Provost during his tenure. He studied sitar and rudra vina in India and has lectured about Indian music around the world, as well as being widely published. Mr. Row's posthumous degree was was accepted by his wife, Heather Row, and was presented by Robert Labaree, co-chair of NEC's Intercultural Institute.

The alumni address was given by Ayn Inserto '01 MM, pictured here with Herbie Hancock. The student address was given by Rae Gallimore '18.

The keynote address was given by NEC faculty John Heiss, currently celebrating his 50th anniversary at NEC.

Congratulations to the class of 2018: