16 Bill Pierce is such an indelible part of my memory from my formative years at Berklee. | knew | had hit the big time when | played gigs with Billl He welcomed and embraced me without ever making I would not be the musician | have become without Billy Pierce. He taught me all of the essential things that | needed at a formative period in my development. Although | did not have Bill Pierce is one of the most inspiring and important teacher | ever had. | always remember how he got me in love with Stanley Turrentine and made me transcribe "But Not for Me”; | loved me feel like a kid, which helped me to feel authentic during such an important time period of my development. Bill served as a great example in this way, and for that | will always be thankful. Terri Lyne Carrington β€˜83 the perspective to realize it at the time...l was lucky enough to have the opportunity to study with a living master at the top of his craft. Mark Turner β€˜90 the challenge so much! He always pushed me to be better. | am eternally grateful for having the chance to study with one of the masters. Melissa Aldana β€˜09