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Berklee College of remembers Quincy Jones

Quincy Jones, the multi-talented producer who died at age 91 on Sunday, is being remembered fondly at Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he once studied.

At age 18, Jones won a scholarship to attend the prestigious school in Back Bay. But he dropped out to tour with jazz musician Lionel Hampton before finishing, a college spokesperson confirmed Monday.

Jones, who went on to produce Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” album and also worked with Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles, kept close ties with Berklee. He received an honorary degree in 1983.

Since 2008, Berklee has partnered with the Quincy Jones Musiq Consortium to improve music education in underserved areas, according to its website.

Krystal Prime Banfield, vice president for education outreach and social entrepreneurship at Berklee, recalled meeting Jones when he launched the consortium.

“But he, for me, felt like family, because I understood immediately what he wanted to do and ensuring that children everywhere would have these opportunities,” said Banfield.

The consortium partners with Berklee City Music, which promotes arts education in the city. As an honorary ambassador to city music, Jones would visit the once to twice a year to provide advice for the students. He even sent a video in during the pandemic to continue show his support during a fundraiser.

Jones wanted to make sure the consortium’s goals of providing opportunity was met, Banfield said.

“He organized all types of people to come together to establish it as a movement for all students to have music education,” she said.

Jones was proud of Berklee’s reputation in international music circles. “Quincy was always proud of his alma mater and he was proud to continue the legacy,” said Banfield.

Banfield described Jones as “very sincere and honest.” Jones’ passion and commitment quickly led him to become a honorary ambassador for the Berklee City Music.

“He availed himself to meetings and to having our young people to come and perform when he would be honored at different events,” said Banfield.

Jones always offered all types of wisdom, advice, mentoring and coaching when he had the chance. “It was near and dear to him and we are ever grateful because he really took it to heart,” said Banfield.

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Rachel Umansky-Castro can be reached at [email protected].

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