We are thrilled to welcome Grammy- and Tony-winning NEA Jazz Master Dee Dee Bridgewater back to
Berklee. To paraphrase her 2015 Berklee commencement address, “Lord have mercy, [we] must be on
pins and needles” that she is back in Boston with us.

Tonight's concert is the culmination of almost a week’s worth of special events with Dee Dee that
have included a master class, panel discussion, special luncheon, and numerous class visits in which
students, faculty, and staff have been able to share their talent, skill, aspirations, and passion for
learning with a true master.

In her commencement address, Dee Dee reminded us that music is “like a mighty sword in life.

It cuts through everything.... It helps us to heal wounded hearts, broken spirits, bringing us joy and
inspiration.” This could not have been clearer than in her work this week with students in the Voice
Department and Institute of Jazz and Gender Justice. Her insights, instruction, and inspiration

empowered our students to do the important work to ensure that the jazz of the future is jazz
without patriarchy.

Now, let's put our hands together and welcome Dee Dee Bridgewater back at Berklee!
Philip Lima
Assistant Chair
Voice Department