14

 

There were two reasons |
chose Berklee College of
Music to further my
education. The first was
because Bill Pierce was a

saxophone professor there,
and second was Branford

I owe a lot to Bill's
warmth and generosity
at Berklee. He (along with
pianist James Williams,
posthumously) is the
reason that | received the
scholarship that allowed
me to continue my studies,

Marsalis attended this
prestigious institution.
Both men were formally
with Art Blakey and the
Jazz Messengers, and

so many other historical
bands. Wanting to be a
part of this musical
fraternity, | knew this was
the place for me. Master
Pierce taught me how

to listen, respect
tradition, transcribe,
practice, and to be curious.
These lessons are passed
on to my students at
Queens College, and the

and | will forever be
grateful for this. I've always
appreciated his spirit and
his sense of humor, along
with his talent—and | can't
think of anyone more
deserving of this tribute.
Lawrence Fields '08

students | teach around
the world. | remember
seeing him many times at
the Regattabar with Tony
Williams, and at the Willow
with James Williams. These
performances inspired

me to work harder, so my
teacher would be proud

of me. | consider myself
very blessed to have my
teacher Master Pierce, and
| know the thousands of his
former students feel

the same.

Antonio Hart ‘91