Amplify Berklee
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Digital Program
Please view the full talent details and more information about the evening below.
Special Guests
DJ Jazzy Jeff
Pioneering DJ, rapper, producer, actor, and entrepreneur DJ Jazzy Jeff, renowned for his versatility, innovative turntablism, and pivotal role in shaping the hip-hop genre. With over three decades in the industry, the Philadelphia native rose to fame alongside Will Smith as DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince, with groundbreaking hits such as “Parents Just Don’t Understand” and block party staple “Summertime,” featuring his hallmark transformer scratch technique. Along the way, the multi-award-winning duo made history by winning the inaugural Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance (1989), and a year later, becoming the first hip-hop act to perform on the Grammys, helping to pave the way for mass acceptance of the genre. Currently on tour with New Kids on the Block and Paula Abdul, DJ Jazzy Jeff continues to be a formidable force in music, influencing generations of aspiring artists through his productions, solo projects, collaborations, and global tours. He makes his Amplify Berklee debut on November 2, joined by a collective of hip-hop dancers and B-boy and B-girl breakers from Boston Conservatory at Berklee’s BFA in Commercial Dance program.
Brian Kennedy
A revered piano prodigy Brian Kennedy '93 is a four-time Grammy Award–winning songwriter and producer. He developed a passion for music early on, taking piano lessons at age six and composing by age eight. With over 20 years in the industry, his credits include hits like "Disturbia" (Rihanna), "Here We Go … Again" (the Weeknd/Tyler, the Creator), and "If This Isn’t Love" (Jennifer Hudson), which won him a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album in 2009. Kennedy has collaborated with top artists and producers, including Smokey Robinson, Lady Gaga, Kelly Clarkson, Doechii, Rascal Flatts, and David Foster.
Kennedy uses music to promote health equity and connect communities through workshops and outreach programs through his nonprofit organization Hits to Healing. An advocate in the arts, he joined Berklee City Music's Ambassador program this summer, furthering his commitment to inspire the next generation of musicians.
Performer Bios
Cosmo & the Four-Strings
Cosmo & The Four-Strings is a dynamic string quartet composed of talented Berklee students: Cosmo Ling (Violin 1), Melinda Huang (Violin 2), Advika Krishnan (Viola), and Celia Sieckert (Cello). With a passion for exploring diverse musical genres, they bring a vibrant and eclectic energy to every performance, refusing to be confined by any style. Whether interpreting hit songs by Coldplay, fiery tangos by Astor Piazzolla, classical masterpieces by Mozart, or beloved movie themes, the ensemble thrives on creativity and collaboration, making every piece they play a unique and memorable experience.
Clara Rose and the Hot Club of Back Bay
Clara Rose and the Hot Club of Back Bay are an all star cast of Boston’s finest Jazz Manouche performers. This ensemble brings to life the music of Django Reinhardt, infusing it with a youthful enthusiasm that lends a contemporary twist to a historic style. Led by the captivating Clara Rose, whose expressive vocals and swinging violin mesmerize audiences, the band features a lineup of talented musicians known for their energetic and sophisticated performances. Their unique sound merges the elegant melodies of Romani jazz with the dynamic spirit of Boston, crafting an unforgettable musical journey that feels both timeless and excitingly new.
Pipes and Drums with Pipe Major Dave Methven
Originally from Scotland, Dave moved to Massachusetts in 2010 and has been playing and teaching bagpipes all over New England ever since. Currently serving as pipe major of the Worcester Kiltie of Massachusetts, one of the most historic pipe bands in the United States, Dave has numerous world championship band titles and solo prizes under his belt and previously led the Royal Burgh of Stirling Pipe Band and the Shotts and Dykehead Caledonia Pipe Band. His music captures the essence of Scotland and will transport you to the Highlands with its beautiful melodies. Hailing from a musical family, Methven's brother Scott served as the personal piper for the late Her Majesty the Queen for four years.
Berklee City Music Alumni Band
The Berklee City Music Alumni Band, highlighting some of Berklee City Music’s best and brightest alumni talent, will set the stage for the evening’s festivities with an eclectic mix of straight ahead jazz, fusion, contemporary R&B, and soul.
Berklee City Music All-Stars featuring Brian Kennedy ‘93
The Berklee City Music All-Stars, directed by drummer, composer, and Berklee City Music teaching artist Tyson Jackson BM '19, MM '20, brings together rising stars from across from the Berklee City Music Network. Performing arrangements across jazz, pop, and R&B, the ensemble showcases a range of musical styles with fresh energy. Joining them is four-time Grammy Award–winning producer, Brian Kennedy '93, whose production credits include work with Rihanna, Kelly Clarkson, Ciara, Jennifer Hudson, David Foster, Lady Gaga, Timbaland, and more. Together, these artists guarantee an electrifying performance highlighting the next generation of musical talent.
Upper Structure
Founded in 2015, Upper Structure is the youngest a cappella group at Berklee College of Music. The group placed second internationally at ICCA Finals in 2018 and 2021 and third internationally in 2024, taking home special awards for Best Choreography, Best Vocal Percussion, and Best Arrangement. In 2020, Upper Structure was named champion of the Los Angeles A Cappella Festival. When the festival returned post-COVID in 2023, Upper Structure returned to defend its status as reigning champion. The ensemble also took home special awards for Outstanding Arrangement, Movement, and Best Rhythm Section for its entire set. Most recently, Upper Structure released a holiday single, “Favorite Time of Year,” which won Best Holiday Song at the 2023 Contemporary A Cappella Recording (CARA) Awards. With each iteration, the group's members have continued to bring an emotional, empowering, and innovative perspective to every performance. Upper Structure’s purpose is to make music with meaning and to create something bigger than themselves.
On Broadway featuring Musical Theater students from Boston Conservatory at Berklee
Boston Conservatory at Berklee is redefining musical theater by fostering artistic authenticity and diversity in all forms. In a program curated especially for Amplify Berklee, experience the remarkable talents of Conservatory students performing a selection of iconic show tunes from your favorite Broadway musicals, in one setlist.
Berklee Tiny Desk featuring Kieran Rhodes BM ‘24
If you mixed Elton John's timeless melodies, Randy Newman's witty lyrics, Chris Martin's silky vocals, and then put them all together on a baseball diamond, you'd get Kieran Rhodes BM ’24. Hailing from Upstate New York, Rhodes was on track to play serious college baseball when he discovered a love for music in high school. He taught himself piano and began writing songs in his late teenage years. To date, the prolific and playful piano man has released 10 singles and an EP, On the Corner of Somewhere Street. He is most recently known for his viral audition on season 17 of America’s Got Talent. Rhodes won the hearts of millions around the world with his original song “Disengage,” which chronicles a struggle with depression. With over 40 million views, the audition was praised by many, including Billboard, Gold Derby, and Simon Cowell himself. Last fall, Rhodes performed at Sound on Sound Music Festival, which also featured the Red Hot Chili Peppers and John Mayer ’96, and he made his return to the festival stage at Boston Calling last May. Rhodes has opened for acts including Grammy nominee JP Saxe and Five for Fighting.
Lotus Feet
Born out of a desire to pay tribute to Shakti’s musical legacy, Lotus Feet is a band of friends aspiring to summon that same rhythmic drive, irresistible energy, and dizzying virtuosity—on all the wrong instruments. With Carson Moore on banjo, Sam Stage on fiddle, Teddy Kent on upright bass, and Dylan Szuch on the tap dance board, Lotus Feet has been making waves in Boston and beyond, performing at festivals like Grey Fox Bluegrass. With a fresh acoustic recipe all their own, Lotus Feet will make your head spin in a good way.
Catfish in the Sky
Catfish in the Sky is a band that's hard to pin down. With an instrument make-up of fiddle, cello, cajon, and ukulele, these young musicians are breaking musical barriers in ways that frankly shouldn't work—but somehow do. Described as "upbeat Americana folk-grass for all ages," these Berklee students combine their musical backgrounds and a vast array of styles, creating sets that often cause bystanders to stop in their tracks. From fiddle tune standards to original compositions, Catfish in the Sky offers something for everyone. The band features Ruth Shumway on fiddle, Sammy Wetstein on cello, Owen Miller on cajón, and Sho Humphries on ukulele.
Berklee Bob Marley Ensemble
Directed by faculty pianist, composer, and arranger Matt Jenson, the Berklee Bob Marley Ensemble is dedicated to the timeless, unifying power of Bob Marley's music. By exploring the rhythms and melodies of the African diaspora, students in this ensemble gain invaluable insights into the discipline of reggae and the art of musical collaboration. Rooted in reggae’s rich traditions and influenced by Marley’s sociopolitical and spiritual messages, the ensemble will perform a set featuring meticulously crafted arrangements inspired by Marley’s original recordings—enhanced with additional horn parts, subtle reharmonizations, and innovative introductions and endings. This dedication to authenticity, combined with creative reinterpretation, ensures a dynamic, spirited, and fun-filled live show that honors Marley’s enduring influence and celebrates the universal message of his music.
Eguie Castrillo Salsa Orchestra
Come dance the night away with Eguie Castrillo, Berklee faculty member and Grammy-winning percussionist, with his euphoric Salsa Orchestra, performing a sizzling mix of Latin music, mambo, salsa of the ’70s and ’80s, bachata, and calypso. With infectious rhythms and electrifying performances, Castrillo has played with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Tito Puente, Steve Winwood, Celia Cruz, Jennifer Lopez, Paquito D’Rivera, Arturo Sandoval, Michael Brecker, Donna Summer, and Blood, Sweat & Tears. Growing up in the Cupey section of San Juan, Puerto Rico, Castrillo has sizzled many stages around the world. He is also a sought-after educator at Berklee and beyond, and is endorsed by Zildjian, Remo, Vic Firth, and Carbono Artisan. The Salsa Orchestra will be joined by dancers from Boston Conservatory at Berklee, engaging the crowd in salsa and Latin dance styles.
Afro-Pop Ambassadors with Albino Mbie BM '13
Under the visionary direction of Albino Mbie BM ’13, Berklee faculty member and an award-winning guitarist, singer, composer, and sound engineer, the Afro-Pop Ambassadors bring a fresh and dynamic sound to the world stage. Born in Maputo, Mozambique, and shaped by a rich cultural heritage, Mbie's musical journey spans continents and genres, resulting in a sound that blends Afro-pop and Moz-jazz. Mbie's multicultural background and extensive training have infused his music with a unique blend of rhythmic complexity and innovative soundscapes. He continues to inspire and educate the next generation of musicians, while his work with the Afro-Pop Ambassadors showcases his ability to weave together Mozambican traditions with global influences. The ensemble's sound is a testament to Mbie's creative prowess, combining elements of marrabenta, Afro-pop, and Moz-jazz to deliver an electrifying experience.
Berklee City Music Ensemble
The Berklee City Music Ensemble, directed by pianist, producer, and Berklee City Music alum Bobby Hall III BM '21, showcases talented singer-songwriter and touring artist Lea Grace Swinson BM ’21, along with a remarkable lineup of fellow band members who are also Berklee City Music alumni. This impressive lineup guarantees a set for true music lovers—those seeking ear candy and dynamic renditions of pop, R&B, jazz, and an array of other genre classics and alumni originals that nourish the soul and uplift the spirit.
Michael Jackson Ensemble: Human Nature
Human Nature is an all-encompassing experience, celebrating Michael Jackson’s tremendous legacy and journey. This production symbolizes the essence of Jackson’s life and his emotional connection to music and the world. This storytelling production is a seamless interweaving of song, dance, theater, visuals, and spoken word. Embark on a journey to explore the King of Pop’s legacy, which will celebrate the different phases of his life: the innocence of childhood, new beginnings in adolescence, social awareness, and the need for love in the world. Professor Tia Fuller serves as the executive director of Human Nature, collaborating with Mimi Jones (director), John “Lil' John” Roberts (executive musical director), Jhony Keys (musical director), and Anthony Burrell (executive choreographer), alongside a talented student production team.
Musical Itinerary
America Ballroom Foyer
5:10 p.m.–5:40 p.m.
Cosmo & the Four-Strings
Violin/Leader — Cosmo Ling, Changhua, Taiwan
Violin II — Melinda Huang, Hsinchu, Taiwan
Viola — Advika Krishnan, Needham, Massachusetts
Cello — Celia Sieckert, Minneapolis, Minnesota
5:40 p.m.–6:05 p.m.
Clara Rose and the Hot Club of Back Bay
Fiddle/Lead Vocals — Clara Rose, Vancouver, Canada
Mandolin — Simon Holden-Schrock, Boston, Massachusetts
Guitar — Jack Soref, Worcester, Massachusetts
Upright Bass — Teddy Kent, Birmingham, Alabama
6:05 p.m.–6:20 p.m.
Pipes and Drums with Pipe Major Dave Methven
Bagpiper — Dave Methven, Stirling, Scotland
Drummer — Evan Lundt, Woodstock, Connecticut
America Ballroom
Sponsored by
Sandhya S. and Craig S. Douglas
David and Kristin Gross
Miky Lee
PepsiCo
Andrew and Mariann Youniss
6:20 p.m.–7:10 p.m.
Berklee City Music Alumni Band
Vocals — Maya Quinones, Mabelton, Georgia
Horn — Coy Simmons, Decatur, Illinois
Guitar — Isaiah Sealy, Boston, Massachusetts
Keys — Arman Wali, Portland, Maine
Bass — Joav Ganor, Ramat Hasharon, Israel
Drums — Ezekiel G. Freeman-Fanfan, Mattapan, Massachusetts
7:33 p.m. - 7:40 p.m.
Berklee City Music All-Stars featuring Brian Kennedy '93
Music Director — Tyson Jackson BM ’19, MM ’20, West Palm Beach, Florida
Featured Artist — Brian Kennedy '93, Kansas City, Missouri
Vocals — Star Mahoney, 2024 City Music Summer Scholar, Phoenix, Arizona
Vocals — Nathanael Barlow, 2024 City Music Summer Scholar, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Tenor Saxophone — Davi Rangel, High School Academy Scholar, Everett, Massachusetts
Trumpet — Jordan Volel, 2024 City Music College Scholar, Boston, Massachusetts
Piano — Pelin Su Yavuz, 2024 City Music Summer Scholar, Boston, Massachusetts
Guitar — Kevin Da Fonseca, 2024 City Music College Scholar, Everett, Massachusetts
Electric Bass — Isaiah Blair, 2024 City Music Summer Scholar, Memphis, Tennessee
Drum Set — Brian Washington, High School Academy Scholar, Hyde Park, Massachusetts
7:50 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Upper Structure
Soprano 1 — Maggie MacKenzie, La Cañada Flintridge, California
Soprano 1 — Piper Mackie, Dallas, Texas
Soprano 1 — Shannon O’Donnell, Stevens Point, Wisconsin
Soprano 2 — Skye Harding, Vancouver, Canada
Mezzo-Soprano — 1 Lexi Stephens, Palm Harbor, Florida
Mezzo-Soprano 2 — Hobawea Nahish, New Town, North Dakota
Alto 1 — Shanna Kachuriner, Ellicott City, Maryland
Alto 1 — Madison Flores, Burbank, California
Alto 2 — Natalie Kay, Narragansett, Rhode Island
Alto 2 — Kuper, Inglewood, California
Tenor 1 — Isaac Akers, Chicago, Illinois
Tenor 2 — Tommy Gilligan, Ramsey, New Jersey
Baritone 1 — Jeremy Garcia, Millbrae, California
Baritone 2 — Shamar Benton, Lindenwold, New Jersey
Baritone 2 — Mitchell Kedi, Kampala, Uganda
Bass 1 — Aidan Mark, Orange County, California
Bass 2 — Derrick Spencer, Savannah, Georgia
Vocal Percussionist — Dean Maida, Clermont, Florida
St. George Room A + B
Sponsored by
Kristine M. and Robert F. Higgins
Tom and Jeanne Hagerty
8:00 p.m.–8:50 p.m.
On Broadway featuring Musical Theater students from Boston Conservatory at Berklee
Director/Pianist — David McGrory, Assistant Professor of Theater
Vocalists/Actors:
Scotty Atienza, San Diego, California
Nina-Simone Diaz, Jacksonville, Florida
Payton Hines, Cincinnati, Ohio
Hayden Lockhart, McDonough, Georgia
Annie McCarthy, Ridgewood, New Jersey
Abby McDonough, West Friendship, Maryland
William Morris, San Diego, California
Elias Robles, Hacienda Heights, California
Nate Scullion, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Sophie Shaw, Concord, New Hampshire
Karina Tejera, Miami, Florida
Alyssa Vanlandingham, Ashburn, Virginia
Calico Velasco, Houston, Texas
Grace Wilkerson, Agoura Hills, California
9:00 p.m.–10:10 p.m.
Berklee Tiny Disk: Kieran Rhodes BM '24
Piano and Vocals — Kieran Rhodes BM '24, Burnt Hills, New York
Guitar, Bass, and Violin — Charlie Burket, Rochester, Minnesota
St. George Room C + D
Sponsored by
Sachi Sato ’02 and Alex Rigopulos ’21P
8:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Lotus Feet
Fiddle and Vocals — Sam Stage, Raleigh, North Carolina
Banjo — Carson Moore, Greenville South Carolina
Upright Bass — Teddy Kent, Birmingham, Alabama
Tap Dancer — Dylan Szuch, Wilmington, North Carolina
9:10 p.m.–10:10 p.m.
Catfish in the Sky
Fiddle — Ruth Shumway, Charlotte, North Carolina
Cello — Sammy Wetstein, Simsbury, Connecticut
Ukulele — Sho Humphries, Austin, Texas
Cajon — Owen Miller, Hamilton, Massachusetts
Staffordshire Ballroom
Sponsored by
Carmichael Roberts and Sandra Park
and Point32Health
8:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Berklee Bob Marley Ensemble
Bandleader — Matt Jenson, Gloucester, Massachusetts
Lead Vocals — Francheska, Lima, Peru
Lead Vocals — Joey Madison, Enola, Pennsylvania
Lead Vocals — Melany Sanchez, Bogotá, Colombia
Lead Vocals / Percussion — Wyatt Rhinehart, San Diego, California
Trumpet — Bob Bean, Medford, Massachusetts
Tenor Saxophone — Cate Chappell, Chantilly, Virginia
Trombone — Cody Mantellini, Haslet, Texas
Organ/Keys — Peyton Mahan, Louisville, Kentucky
Keys — Salvator Saia, Boulder, Colorado
Electric Guitar — Eleanor Genzer, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Electric Guitar — Sam Quitkin, Stratham, New Hampshire
Bass Guitar — Izzy Savides, Detroit, Michigan
Drums — Colin McEllhenney, Philadelphia,Pennsylvania
9:20 p.m.–10:20 p.m.
Eguie Castrillo Salsa Orchestra
Bandleader/Congas — Eguie Castrillo, Framingham, Massachusetts and Puerto Rico
Lead Vocals — Rafa Moreno BM '23, Nuevo Arraiján, Panamá
Flute/Background Vocals — Kristalis Sotomayor Matos BM '21, Juncos, Puerto Rico
Trumpet — Christian Cano, Pawtucket, Rhode Island
Trumpet — Jeff Claassen, San Francisco, California
Tenor Saxophone — Daniel Ian Smith, Boston, Massachusetts
Trombone — Jason Camelio MM '21, Northbridge, Massachusetts
Piano — Fernando Crespo, Camuy, Puerto Rico
Bass — Guitar Fernando Huergo, Córdoba, Argentina
Bongo/Percussion — Miguel Martinez, Boston, Massachusetts
Timbales — Javier Timbal, Lawrence, Massachusetts
Dancers from the Dance Division at Boston Conservatory at Berklee:
Sydney Duby, Worcester, Massachusetts
Kynlee McBride, Lincoln, New Hampshire
Nya Owusu, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Gianna Velez, Matawan, New Jersey
Essex Ballroom North
Essex Ballroom North
Sponsored by
Bob and Mimi Murley
and Susan Whitehead
8:00 p.m.–8:50 p.m.
Afro-Pop Ambassadors with Albino Mbie BM '13
Guitar/Vocals/Musical Director — Albino Mbie BM '13, Maputo, Mozambique
Vocals — Olivia C. Dacak, Australia, Melbourne
Trombone — Vincent LaRosa, Howell, New Jersey
Guitar — Greyson Hillin, Dallas, Texas
Piano — Tom Almeida, Tiradentes, Brazil
Keys — Uta Tanabe, Tokyo, Japan
Drums — Kwaku Darko, Ghana, West Africa
Acoustic and Electric Bass — Marco (Groovejuice) Salazar, Crawford, New York
Percussion — Jeremiah Texidor, Orlando, Florida
9:10 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
Berklee City Music Ensemble
Vocals — Lea Grace Swinson BM '21, Dorchester, Massachusetts
Piano — Bobby Hall III BM '21, Brooklyn, New York
Guitar — Joi Porter, Maumelle, Arkansas
Bass — Maurice Allen, Tampa, Florida
Drum Set — Bryant Thomas II, Upper Marlboro, Maryland
Essex Ballroom South
Essex Ballroom South
Sponsored by
Bodo and Tamilyn Liesenfeld
8:00 p.m.–9:15 p.m.
Michael Jackson Ensemble: Human Nature
Chief Executive Director — Tia Fuller, Aurora, Colorado
Director/Performance Coach — Mimi Jones, Westchester, New York
Executive Choreographer — Anthony Burrell, Philadelphia
Musical Director/Performance Coach — Jhonson (Jhony Keys) Francois, Providence, Rhode Island
Executive Producer/Creative Director — Candice Threat, Detroit, Michigan
Vocal Arranger/Featured Vocalist/ Executive Producer/Creative Director — Ambrosine Williams, Nassau,The Bahamas
Visual Director/Featured Vocalist/Executive Producer/Creative Director — Ethan Zydel, Toledo, Ohio
Health Coach/Featured Vocalist/Creative Director/Featured Vocalist — Liyah, Dayton, Ohio
Creative Director/Lead Vocals — Diego Mata, Oakland, California
Musical Director/Electric Bass — Toby Dorfman, Westchester, New York
Assistant Musical Director/Percussion — Desiree Orien Tay, Singapore
Musical Consultant/Featured Bassist — Jaylon Toler, Memphis, Tennessee
Programmer/Arranger/Technical Director — Emmett Price IV, Framingham, Massachusetts
Programmer/Arranger — Christopher Sinisterra, Everett, Massachusetts
Vocal Arranger/Vocal Director — Christian Inman, Upper Marlboro, Maryland
Performance Coach/Production Manager — Bri Opoku, Houston, Texas
Production Assistant — Nyla McDaniel, St. Louis, Missouri
Production Assistant/Featured Vocalist — Jana Romaine, Palo Alto, California
Lead Vocals — King Dullah, Washington, D.C.
Lead Vocals — De'Jhaun, Springfield, Massachusetts
Lead Vocals — Isaiah Solares, Murrieta, California
Featured Vocals — Jordan Aaron Hall, New York, New York
Background Vocals — Shannon O’Donnell, Stevens Point, Wisconsin
Background Vocals — Lennie, Poreč, Croatia
Background Vocals — JP Thomas, Denver, Colorado
Background Vocals — Shamar Benton, Lindenwold, New Jersey
Alto Saxophone/Flute — Mason X. Windley, Hampton Roads, Virginia
Trumpet — Jordan Volel, Boston, Massachusetts
Trombone — Cha’Ya Grant, Boston, Massachusetts
Electric Guitar — Jason Recht, Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey
Electric Guitar — Emmy Barone, Scituate, Rhode Island
Violin — Lia Tompkins, Los Angeles, California
Cello — Asa Simpson-Cole, Columbus, Ohio
Keys — Ze Cavaco, Lisbon, Portugal
Electric Bass — Arend (Tiggy) Tigchelaar, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Drums — Julian Scott, Middletown, Connecticut
Drum Technician/Drums — Brayden Cranford, Detroit, Michigan
Associate Choreographer/Dance Captain — Sydney Duby, Worcester, Massachusetts
Associate Choreographer — Sasha Powers, Walpole, Massachusetts
Associate Choreographer — Rianne Thomas, Thibodaux, Louisiana
Assistant Choreographer/Dancer — Nya Owusu, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Dancers:
Emma Guan, Calgary, Canada
Aurelio Phillips, Cincinnati, Ohio
Olivia Reid, Barrington, Rhode Island
Michayla Simpson, Orlando, Florida
Trinity Marshall (Bini), Washington D.C.
That Boy Matthew, Upper Marlboro, Maryland
Kynlee McBride, Lincoln, New Hampshire
Gianna Velez, Matawan, New Jersey
10:00 p.m.–11:15 p.m.
DJ Dance Party with DJ Jazzy Jeff
Sponsored by
John P. and Stephanie F. Connaughton
MC/Vocals — DJ Jazzy Jeff
Dancers from the Dance Division at Boston Conservatory at Berklee:
Trinity Marshall (Bini), Washington, D.C.
Aurelio Philips, Cincinnati, Ohio
Sasha Powers, Walpole, Massachusetts
Michayla Simpson, Orlando, Florida
Rianne Thomoas, Thibodaux, Louisiana
Sponsors and Supporters
Thank you to our supporters
Elite Sponsor
Abrams Capital
30th Anniversary Sponsor
Aramark Collegiate Hospitality
Premier Sponsors
Bill and Kelly Kaiser ’23P
Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation
New Balance Foundation
Martin and Tristin Mannion
Ballroom Sponsors
Sandhya S. and Craig S. Douglas
David and Kristin Gross
Miky Lee
PepsiCo
Andrew and Mariann Youniss
DJ Dance Party Sponsor
John P. and Stephanie F. Connaughton
Music Room Sponsors
Point32Health
Tom and Jeanne Hagerty
Kristine M. and Robert F. Higgins
Bodo and Tamilyn Liesenfeld
Bob and Mimi Murley
Carmichael Roberts and Sandra Park
Sachi Sato ’02 and Alex Rigopulos ’21P
Susan Whitehead
Gold Sponsors
Barnes and Noble Booksellers
Preetha and Mammen Chally
Jasson and Shannon Cohen
Jessica and Tim Donohue
Ann Marie Foss ’25P
Stefan and Sonchu Gavell
Steve Holtzman and Julia Byers
Newmark
Prime Buchholz
State Street Corporation
Richard and Alison Vieira
Silver Sponsors
ACME Building Services
DiMella Shaffer
Gallagher Student Health
J.P. Morgan
NFP, an Aon Company
Tee Taggart and Jack Turner
Trinity Building + Construction Management Corporation
William Rawn Associates
Individual Supporters
Cooper Anderson BM '05
Robert Bean
Jeff Behrens and Lori Rutter
Tony Bordon
Emelia Borkowski
Charles Chappell and Lee Landers '28P
Christopher Coghlin
Paulo Dana BM '95
Kadian Davy
Tamara Davy
Tom and Stephanie DiGiovanni '27P
Lisa Franciosa
Victor Gonzalez BM '17
Eric Hoagland
Rolli Jameson-Dudu
Georgia Lipari BFA '18
Michael Mason
Belinda McILvaine '06
Frederick T. Miller and Kathryn E. Cade
Tracy and Eli McBride
Stephanie McKay
Kevin and Linda O'Leary
Abigail Pappas '25
David '79 and Sally Patrick
Eloise and Jeff Patterson ‘25P
Pablo Rangel
Angela Rine BA '24
Jim Salzman
Shanalee Saunders
Yoon Sung ‘28P
Mark and Cecilia Tigchelaar '27P
Beverly Tryon BM ‘82
Neal Vachhani
Fredericka Veikley
Carlo and Hillary Von Schroder
Leigh Warren
Charisse Weir
Special Contributions
Debbie and Phil Edmundson ‘19P
Michael and Barbara Eisenson
Teresa Koster and Errin Siagel
Ted Maloney and Claire Newton
Katherine and David Scott Sloan
Committees and Credits
Amplify Berklee Committee
Preetha and Mammen Chally, Committee Chairs
Jessica and Timothy Donohue, Committee Chairs
Sandhya and Craig Douglas, Committee Chairs
Alison and Richard Vieira, Committee Chairs
Bryan Abreu BM ’04
Jasson Cohen
Paul Deninger
Gloria and Emilio Estefan '07H, Trustees, Honorary
Chris Halaby ’18
Steve Holtzman, Trustee
Grace Kelly BM ’12, Trustee
David Mash BM ’76
Kaitlin Passafaro
Carmichael Roberts
Ron Savage BM ’84
Tarik Ward, Trustee
Operational Committees
Amplify Operations Committee
Dr. Krystal Prime Banfield
Tom Baskett BM ’91
Lindsey Chinni
Carolyn Croisier
Michael Goffinet
Ryan Jones BM ’05
Reggie Lofton BM ’83
Maureen McMullan PD ’09
Sarah Patrick
Riley Sinclair BM ‘22
Barbara Thomas
Institutional Advancement Amplify Team
Britney Blevins
Joe Chinni BM ’02
Michela Doherty
Joseph Dreeszen
Jaquel Eley
Padriac Farma
Virginia Fordham BM ’80
Edie Germano
Colleen Glenney BM ’01
Greg Gordon
Melissa King
Cameron Lane
Georgia Lipari BFA ’18
Maura Lynch
Cynthia Meadow
Alissa Minot
Patrick McGrail
Danielle Parillo ’97
Rachel Rosenberg
Melissa Spil
Caitlin St. Laurent
Erin Tunnicliffe
Davis Wimberly BM ’05
Special Thanks
David Bogen, Interim President and Provost, Berklee
Jim Lucchese, Incoming President, Berklee
Betsy Newman, Interim Executive Vice President, Berklee
Nick Balkin
Arden Barlow
Laurie Bishop
Tonya Butler
Debbie Cavalier BM '87
Tori Donahue
Erin Hubay BM ’12
Michelle Lee Festino
Colette Greenstein
Linwood Harper BM ’96
Sam Law
Kevin Levesque
Claire Machamer
Misael Martinez
Lesley O’Connell
Christina Quarles
Sarah Riggs
Ron Savage BM '84
Abria Smith BM '97
Magen Tracy
Sarah Valente White
Concert Production Team
Music Producer/Artistic Director Maureen McMullan PD '09
Production Manager Ryan Jones BM ’05
Director Tom Baskett BM ’91
Production Designer Riley Sinclair BM ‘22
Lighting Programmer Riley Sinclair BM '22
Stage Managers Alejo Planchart BM '04
Ed Liberatore ‘98
Joseph Stewart
David Hughes
Steve Panacek
Teleprompter Operator —Suzanne Willard Kiess '93
Audio Services — Provided by Bergsten Music and Scorpio Sound Systems
Lighting Services — Provided by Audio Spectrum and Encore
Video Services — Provided by C.I.M.S.
Staging — Provided by Fall Hill Productions and Encore
Video Production
Director of Video Production Reggie Lofton BM ’83
City Music Video
Featured Personnel:
Andrew Wood-Sue Wing, 2024 City Music Summer Scholar, Belmont, Massachusetts
Melanie Kristine Moreno Ipiales, 2024 City Music Summer Scholar, Quito, Ecuador
Joi Stubbs, 2023 and 2024 City Music Summer Scholar, Memphis, Tennessee
Derek Maxwell Santa Cruz, City Music Boston High School Academy Scholar, Lynn, Massachusetts
City Music Video Production Crew
Creative Director and Producer — Sam Law, EOSE Director of Marketing and Communications, City Music Boston Alumna, Roslindale, MA
Editor and Producer — 4Reel Productions Teo Karakolev BM ‘15
Videographers, 4Reel Productions
Kevin Greene BM '13
Sam Harchik BM '15
Original Score —Joshua Sutherland BM '19, 2015 Berklee City Music College Scholar, Mattapan, Massachusetts
About Berklee City Music
Berklee launched City Music over 30 years ago to provide access to high-quality music education for public school youth in Boston. Today, City Music is a global movement, serving more than 60,000 students internationally in the last year alone.
City Music programming is designed to provide multiple points of entry and clear sequential pathways leading to college. Broadly, City Music comprises City Music Boston, our flagship program, and the City Music Network, which connects City Music Boston with 46 network sites across the US, Latin America, and Canada, and the Berklee PULSE Comprehensive Online Curriculum.
Program Success
City Music alumni have pursued undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at dozens of institutions in addition to Berklee, including Dartmouth, Brown, Georgetown, Harvard, Columbia, Cornell Law School, New York University, Oberlin, Stanford University, Spelman College, Suffolk Law School, Temple University School of Medicine, Wesleyan, and Boston University. Graduates have embarked on remarkable career journeys as performers, composers, producers, and educators, as well as in fields such as medicine, law, architecture, and engineering. Many also take on leadership roles within Berklee and beyond.
Notable alumni of the program include Micaela Jaé Rodriguez (lead actress on Apple TV series, Loot and FX series, POSE), Bryan Abreu B.M. ’04 (keyboardist for Keyshia Cole), Tuffus Zimbabwe B.M. ’05 (keyboardist in the Saturday Night Live band), Ashley Rodriguez B.M. ’10 (former top-24 contestant on American Idol), Courtney Harrell ’01 (producer for America’s Got Talent and former top-12 contestant on The Voice), and Dr. William Junior ’07 (Anesthesiologist).
Since 1993, Berklee City Music has provided over $30 million in total scholarships to more than 2,000 students to attend the Aspire: Five-Week Music Performance Intensive program, and funded 283 students to attend Berklee College of Music on the full-tuition scholarships since. There are 33 City Music Full-Tuition College Scholarship recipients currently enrolled at Berklee for the fall 2024 semester.
Proceeds from Amplify Berklee help deserving young people pursue their dreams and aspirations. We offer a very special thank you to our sponsors and guests who helped make tonight possible.