Pat Metheny joined the faculty of Berklee College of Music in 1974 at age 19, becoming its youngest teacher ever after a recommendation from vibraphonist Gary Burton.
He taught guitar there for roughly 18 months in the mid-1970s while developing his career and later joining Burton’s band. Though never a formal student, the experience immersed him in Boston’s vibrant jazz scene.
In 1996 Berklee awarded him an honorary doctorate, and he delivered the commencement address. He returned in the early 2000s as Herb Alpert Visiting Professor for multi-week residencies, conducting clinics and coaching students.