The New England Conservatory Preparatory School (NEC Prep) is set to celebrate a significant milestone in 2025, marking 75 years since its establishment. The landmark anniversary will be observed with a robust schedule of performances, special events, and community-focused programs designed to honor the school’s enduring impact on music education.
The anniversary festivities will commence on May 15, 2025, with a concert featuring the Youth Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of conductor Juliano Aniceto. This performance will be followed by a celebratory reception, setting the tone for a year dedicated to reflection and celebration.
The centerpiece event, the Daylong Anniversary Celebration, is scheduled for November 15. Highlighting the program, distinguished pianist Wha Kyung Byun will conduct a piano masterclass and moderate a panel discussion. Panel participants include renowned alumnus and pianist George Li, NEC Prep Composition Chair Rodney Lister, and Finnish-American composer and Prep alumna Lara Poe, who studied under Lister.
Following the discussions, George Li will perform alongside the Youth Philharmonic Orchestra in Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy, accompanied by both the NEC Chamber Singers and Youth Chorale performing jointly, showcasing the school’s vibrant musical community.
Earlier in the year, April 12 will feature the NEC Prep Open House, an event tailored for prospective students and their families. Attendees can look forward to live performances, interactive workshops, hands-on instrument explorations, and opportunities to meet the faculty.
Andrea Kalyn, President of the New England Conservatory, reflected on the institution’s legacy, stating, “For 75 years, NEC Prep has been a national leader in preparatory music education, offering transformative experiences for students of all ages and skill levels. This milestone year will celebrate the thousands of young musicians whose lives have been shaped by NEC Prep – from lessons to professional careers in music and beyond.”
Kalyn further emphasized the school’s future aspirations: “We are committed to expanding access, deepening community connections, and opening new doors for the next generation. With world-class faculty and robust scholarship support, NEC Prep empowers every student to discover their voice and realize their full potential.”
Alumnus George Li shared his personal connection to the institution, saying, “It’s an honor to return to campus and celebrate NEC Prep’s incredible legacy while meeting the next generation of musicians who will carry it forward. My time at NEC – from my early years at Prep to the dual-degree program with Harvard and my artist diploma – was truly transformative.”
He continued, “My lessons over the last 15 years with Ms. Wha Kyung Byun shaped me into the musician, artist, and person that I am today, and the years studying chamber music and theory helped further refine and hone my musical ear. I’m deeply grateful for the years spent at the NEC Prep school and am very excited to be part of this wonderful celebration as a small way of giving back.”
— The Violin Post Editorial Staff
