Bob Winter, 2005 July 21
Interview Summary
Pianist and Berklee College of Music professor Bob Winter discusses his training on piano and the beginnings of his music career, as well as his experience attending the Schillinger House (now Berklee College of Music). He describes several gigging experiences, including performing as part of a society orchestra and playing for society parties; accompanying silent films; and performing with the Boston Pops, particularly under conductor and composer John Williams. Winter also discusses his teaching priorities and changes he’s observed in the music industry.
Dates
- Creation: 2005 July 21
Creator
- From the Collection: Berklee College of Music (Organization)
- From the Collection: Bouchard, Fred (Jazz writer) (Interviewer, Person)
Conditions Governing Access
Collection is open for research. Access to this collection is provided online here. See individual interview records for direct links to streaming video.
Biographical / Historical
Pianist and educator Robert “Bob” Winter of Malden, Massachusetts, first attended Schillinger House (later Berklee College of Music) before completing his studies at Boston University. He also pursued graduate studies at the New England Conservatory. Winter was the pianist-in-residence at various Boston clubs and lounges, including at Gallagher’s restaurant and the Four Season Hotel; served as musical director of the Playboy Club in Boston from 1966 to 1977; and was a featured pianist for the Boston Pops orchestra starting in 1980 under conductors John Williams and Keith Lockhart. Winter joined the Berklee College of Music Piano department in 1972, and also taught jazz piano at the New England Conservatory of Music and lectured at Northeastern University. Retiring after 50 years of teaching in 2022, Winter received faculty emeritus status and continued to teach part time up until his passing in 2024.
Language of Materials
English
Repository Details
Part of the Berklee Archives Repository