New England Conservatory Preparatory School to Celebrate 75 Years

The school will mark its anniversary with concerts, workshops, masterclasses, and more

The New England Conservatory Preparatory School (NEC Prep) has announced an array of celebratory events to mark the 75th anniversary of its founding. The year-long celebration will include performances, special events, and community programs.

The first concert, given by the Youth Philharmonic Orchestra and conductor Juliano Aniceto, will take place on May 15, 2025 — and will be followed by a celebratory reception.

The major event of the year is the Daylong Anniversary Celebration, which takes place on November 15. Wha Kyung Byun will give a piano masterclass, and will lead a panel discussion with past student George Li, NEC Prep Composition Chair Rodney Lister, and Finnish-American composer and Prep alumna Lara Poe, who studied under Lister.

Then, Li will join the Youth Philharmonic Orchestra for Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy, featuring the NEC Chamber Singers and Youth Chorale performing side-by-side.

A further event is the NEC Prep Open House on April 12, which is aimed at prospective students and their families. It will consist of live performances, workshops, instrument explorations, faculty meet-and-greets, and more.

"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," said NEC President Andrea Kalyn. "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."

"As we look to the future, we’re 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."

"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," said George Li. "My time at NEC — from my early years at Prep to the dual-degree program with Harvard and my artist diploma — was truly transformative."

"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!"