The Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) and New England Conservatory (NEC) have announced their new alliance that formalizes and expands the 140-year artistic relationship between the two institutions.

The initiative, titled "BSO x NEC," will provide NEC students and alumni access to one of the world’s great orchestras and musicians, plus integrated approaches to artist cultivation, content development, and shared use of campuses and venues.

Additionally, the NEC faculty has always comprised BSO players; over the years, there have been 131 BSO members in the faculty. Currently, 50 BSO members have at least one NEC affiliation, whether as an alumnus, a current faculty member, or a parent of an NEC student.

Through BSO x NEC, patrons will experience emerging talent, including the Young Artist Spotlight Series that showcases four NEC artists per season across BSO platforms.

More programs include the BSO Guest Soloist Pathway for composers and conductors, the Chamber Music Mentorship with Boston Symphony Chamber Players, and the Music Industry Speaker Series. 

Another notable program is the joint Honors Youth Chorus for local students aged eight to 13 from the Greater Boston area’s children’s choirs, who will receive choral training through NEC Prep’s Choral Department to perform with the BSO. 

Ongoing collaborations will include the “What I Hear” series, featuring free, composer-curated chamber music programs by NEC students and conversations with BSO guest composers and artistic staff. 

BSO x NEC will also see both institutions benefit from each other’s performance venues, including the Symphony Hall, Jordan Hall, and Tanglewood.

“This alliance represents the future of classical music," said NEC President Andrea Kalyn. “While our institutions have been deeply connected for over a century, we are now creating intentional pathways for musicians at every career stage, from our youngest prep students to our most advanced artists, to learn from and perform alongside BSO musicians. This is truly transformative for the entire musical community.”

“The BSO and NEC have enjoyed a close and long-standing relationship dating back 140 years,” added Chad Smith, President and CEO of the BSO. “In launching our new alliance, we are committing to partnering in a variety of ways that will benefit students, musicians, and audiences alike. As a proud NEC graduate and as a steward of the Boston Symphony's legacy, I couldn’t be more excited to bring these two great institutions closer together, expanding our reach and impact in ways that are only possible through this alliance.”