New England Conservatory of Music

Gifts to NEC's Annual Fund help to advance all aspects of learning at the Conservatory, at all levels of the College, Preparatory School and School of Continuing Education. The Annual Fund supports NEC's world-class faculty and student musicians as they strive to develop and share their artistic resources, knowledge and talent. The Annual Fund also supports the nearly 1,000 free concerts NEC musicians perform for the public each year, ranging from operas and symphonies to intimate chamber music, jazz and contemporary improvisation.

Each year, thousands of young musicians from the U.S. and abroad apply for admission to NEC. For many, scholarships and financial aid are crucial factors in their ability to attend the Conservatory, or even to contemplate pursuing a career in music. The need is great: 98% of NEC applicants request financial aid, and 90% of our students receive some level of assistance. This support affords talented students the opportunity to pursue their passion, as they strive to establish themselves in a vitally important field that offers few financial rewards but has a significant impact on society. All students who receive scholarship support also benefit from the encouragement of knowing that others share a commitment to their education and to their becoming the music leaders of the future.

NEC's Community Performances and Partnerships (CPP) Program is based on the premise that music improves quality of life, and that live performances should be accessible to all people regardless of age, race, or economic background. Through CPP, Boston school children receive hands-on, individualized musical education, and underserved audiences of all ages experience top quality live musical performances in familiar settings, bringing the power of live music to disadvantaged communities where few such opportunities exist. The program also provides valuable training and experience to Conservatory students, fostering a dedication to community service that they carry forward throughout their careers. Each year, more than 400 CPP programs reach approximately 14,000 children and adults from all walks of life throughout the greater Boston area. Our 120 community partners include schools, libraries, nursing homes, hospitals, homeless shelters and many other respected community institutions.