Testimonials

"Jim Lucchese is in the most unique position to advocate for music and the people that make it. As a musician, he understands the challenge inherent in creation, audience building, and establishing a durable career as an artist. As one of the leading executives in music technology, he has a cutting-edge view of the opportunities and challenges innovation will bring to music as we enter a critical time of profound innovation. I am thrilled that Jim is the one to lead Berklee as its next president."
—Matt Pincus, Music Publisher and Investor

"Jim Lucchese has led two innovative music enterprises that represent the core of a modern musician’s livelihood—streaming and live performance—and he has deep respect for Berklee. I know he will fully invest himself in helping the institution serve the next generation of innovative musicians, educators, dancers, actors, producers, engineers, composers, and entrepreneurs. Plus, he’s a drummer: the ultimate qualification for setting the tempo."
—Roger Brown, Former President, Berklee

"Throughout our years of knowing Jim Lucchese, he has always been an industry professional that we can trust and rely on. We’ve witnessed his unwavering dedication to artists and individuals firsthand; he deeply cares about the success and well-being of those around him. As Berklee College of Music students, we feel grateful to have him be a part of this institution."
—Daphne Eleftheriadou and Tomer Oron, Berklee Students

"Jim Lucchese’s appointment marks a transformative moment for Berklee. Having worked closely with him, I’ve witnessed firsthand how his curiosity, entrepreneurial mindset, and dedication to artist empowerment have continuously positioned him at the forefront of our evolving music industry. I have every confidence that through Jim’s leadership, Berklee will achieve new levels of academic success and creativity, defining the future of arts education."
—Katie (Schlosser) Vitolins, Head of Fan Commerce at Amazon Music

"I have known Jim Lucchese for quite a long time. I was first introduced to him through his excellent drumming, but have since appreciated him as an amazing musician, a quiet, unassuming mentor, and most importantly, as a friend.

Through 30 years of collaborations, I have always referred to him as ‘the man who had my rhythm,’ but I realize that he has been so much more. Through his excellent musical intuition, his knowledge of the industry and his quiet, confident, understated manner, Jim has inspired me to continue to grow and strive to be the genuine artist I’ve always wanted to be.

Jim recognizes the importance of what I’m doing and continues to encourage me as I pursue my lifelong musical journey. For that, I will always be grateful."
—Kemp Harris, Singer, Songwriter, and Actor

"Jim Lucchese is an exceptional individual who has a deep love for and extensive experience with Berklee. His passion for the performing arts and dedication to helping artists reach new audiences and achieve their dreams have been evident throughout his career. As an innovator in music technology and the business of live music, Jim possesses an entrepreneurial spirit that aligns perfectly with Berklee’s vision. Having had the privilege of working alongside Jim on the Berklee Online board committee for many years, I can attest to his thoughtful, strategic, and impactful contributions, which have been invaluable to our work. Jim's appointment comes at a pivotal moment in Berklee's history, and I am confident he is the ideal person to lead our organization forward. His unique blend of experience, innovation, and dedication positions him well to guide Berklee into an exciting future. I look forward with great anticipation to the heights Berklee will reach under Jim's leadership."
—Debbie Cavalier, Senior Vice President of Pre-College, Online, and Professional Programs

"When we embarked on the search for Berklee’s next president, we were resolute in recognizing that Berklee’s enduring eminence is rooted in its rich history and forward-looking dedication to excellence, alongside the profound influence of music and the arts to transform lives. Jim Lucchese not only wholeheartedly embraces and embodies this vision but also brings with him a distinguished record as a leader and pioneer. His stewardship will undoubtedly propel Berklee to new heights in educational, technological, and creative leadership across music, dance, and theater."
—Sean Skeete, Dean, Professional Performance Division; Search Committee Member

"I am thrilled that Jim Lucchese will be leading Berklee into its next phase. Jim is smart, innovative, thoughtful, honest, and open to learning and growing the Berklee brand. I found his perspective to be refreshing and inspiring. He is extremely approachable and easy to engage in conversation, and I think he is the right person to lead Berklee during this crucial time. I look forward to welcoming and supporting Jim as he begins his journey here at Berklee."
—Kurt Douglas, Associate Professor of Dance, Boston Conservatory at Berklee

"Through the rigorous presidential search process, I had the opportunity to connect with Jim Lucchese on a personal level. I discovered not only an innovative, entrepreneurial spirit but also a down-to-earth fellow musician who listens deeply and is fueled by curiosity. Jim understands what makes Berklee unique, cherishes our past, is deeply dedicated to the arts, and has a passion for making music accessible to all. I'm excited to welcome Jim, collaborate with him, and support his future leadership, amplifying Berklee's uniqueness with fresh, unifying energy and a forward-thinking vision."
—Enrique Gonzalez Müller, Associate Professor, Music Production and Engineering; Search Committee Member

"Throughout his career, Jim Lucchese has shown steadfast support for the artistic community. His management of industry changes, global market insights, and empathetic leadership position him as a dedicated advocate for nurturing a thriving environment for Berklee's students and artists."
—Isaí Jess Muñoz, Interim Dean of Music, Boston Conservatory at Berklee; Search Committee Member

"Twenty years before I joined the voice faculty at Berklee College of Music and Tufts University, I was a performing artist in the fields of acting and music. In July 1996, I arrived in Boston to join a performing arts collective that combined spoken word and music. Within the first couple weeks of my arrival, I met Jim Lucchese at a social gathering in Somerville. Jim was a reputable drummer, and he was invited to join our performing arts collective. Jim's propulsive rhythm and his ability to play in the pocket were key to the collective evolving into the funk-rock band Neon Grandma.

Not only was Jim a superb drummer, but he had tremendous business acumen. In the 1990s, during the rise of second-generation mobile phone systems, Jim was already a successful, award-winning salesman when we first met in our 20s. I was aware of Jim's ambition in both music and the communications field, but I had no idea what lay ahead for him after Neon Grandma disbanded. In 2001, the band members went their separate ways professionally, but we all remained friends. Despite our busy lives and growing families, Jim and I always enjoyed socializing and playing music together whenever possible.

Jim has also been a terrific intermediary on my behalf when it came to booking gigs. For instance, when Jim was CEO of The Echo Nest, I was a regular hire as a musician and MC for the company's holiday parties. To this day, Jim and I have maintained a close, trustworthy relationship as fellow musicians. Above all else, I cherish his friendship. I've recognized and celebrated Jim's success in the music business every step of the way, which is why I'm delighted beyond belief knowing Jim will be the next president of Berklee.

We've come full circle, he and I. I look forward to many more years of camaraderie and making music with Jim.

In closing: Berklee has the right man in Jim. His love of music as a player and aficionado knows no bounds. Under Jim's leadership, Berklee will flourish in unimaginable ways. He possesses clarity of vision, an enormous heart, and an infectious sense of humor. He wants us all to succeed. Twenty-seven years later, I am honored to call Jim my friend."
—Adrian Sicam, Assistant Professor, Voice