“When I enrolled at New England Conservatory, it was a dream come true.”

Eileen’s parents introduced her to music when she was a child. “Music was always playing in our home. I thought something was missing if I didn’t hear it.” Her passion for music continues today. “I never pass up the opportunity to talk music with anyone interested in a musical conversation.”

Deep-seated in her love of music was the desire to learn to play piano. Well into adulthood, she decided it was time to learn. She started on an electric keyboard and lessons at a local music school. After she and her husband attended an adult piano recital at NEC’s Williams Hall, her husband encouraged her to enroll in the adult education program at NEC. And, so it began -  private lessons, piano master classes, week-long piano workshops, and finally performing in Williams Hall.  

Eileen’s experience inspired her to include a gift in her will for the Piano Department at NEC. “I’m a firm believer in lifelong education. Thanks to NEC, I was able to follow my passion for music as an adult. I want to make sure the same opportunities are available for future generations of piano students.”

Piano is still an important part of Eileen’s life. When she and her husband moved to Rhode Island a few years ago, a must-have in their new home was a music room for her grand piano. She practices several hours a day to prepare for her twice-weekly piano lessons and jazz ensemble. “My life revolves around music and piano: I couldn’t be happier.”