His consistent integrity and wisdom in the
Jazz Messenger fraternity at Berklee and
now in the Messenger Legacy Band is a
shining example of the highest standards
and principles found anywhere.”

Another Pierce Berklee colleague,
Eric Gould, the school’s chair of jazz
composition, sums up his impressions of
Bill as “an institution at Berklee. The
respect he commanded was universal,
from the top of the organization. Having
been a product of Berklee himself, and
having enjoyed success in the industry,
Bill was always a trusted voice within the
institution. He was a mentor to his

Gracious, mellifluous,
dependable, cool, and
an inspiring quality that
goes beyond the notes...
into friendship. What a
pleasure to have shared

 

students, among whom are some of the
most prominent names in jazz. | have a
strong sense that although Bill has now
retired from Berklee, he is nowhere near
finished contributing to the fabric of jazz
in Boston and worldwide.”

Clearly more chapters remain to be
written in this jazz life splendidly lived.
The next phase in the evolution of Bill
Pierce will clearly be well worth careful
observation as we pause on this
auspicious evening to salute his
tremendous contributions to
jazz education.

important bright moments
on and off the stage. Here's
to Bill Pierce, from the kid
in the green hoodie.

Kevin Eubanks ‘79