A Convocation Honoring Continuity, Excellence, and Music

Roxbury Latin began its winter term on January 5 with a celebration honoring two individuals whose commitment to the craft of teaching, love of music, and care for their students and colleagues stand out as exemplars.

Rob Opdycke, RL’s Director of Music since 1999, was installed as the first Kerry P. Brennan Chair in Music during a moving, musical celebration in Rousmaniere Hall. The new, endowed chair is given in honor of Headmaster Emeritus Kerry Brennan, who served as RL’s Director of Music from 1978 to 1986, and as its Headmaster from 2004 through 2024 

“This morning I’m pleased to talk about continuity, excellence, and music,” began Mr. Brennan, who delivered the convocation’s address. “In establishing teaching chairs or professorships, RL has chosen to put teachers at the center of school life, at the center of its continuity.”

Between the communal singing of For the Splendor of Creation and a special rendition of “O Love” by Elaine Hagenberg, performed by the Latonics—with Mr. Opdycke conducting, Mr. Brennan playing piano, and Lev Mamuya ’14 accompanying on the cello—the longstanding tradition of music at RL were highlighted and lauded. The celebration culminated in the debut performance by Mr. Opdycke of his original song “This Old Hall,” written for the occasion. The ceremony was followed by a breakfast reception that included the more than 50 guests who were in attendance. 

Read the citations that Dr. Schaffer presented to Mr. Opdycke and to Mr. Brennan.

Watch the entirety of the Convocation Hall, honoring Mr. Brennan and Mr. Opdycke.

We are grateful to John and Stephanie Connaughton—whose generous lead gift made this faculty chair possible—as well as the more than 60 other donors who contributed to make this endowed chair possible.