Composer, producer and legendary rock guitarist STEVE VAI was presented with an Honorary Doctor Of Music Degree by Musicians Institute at its fall 2009 graduation ceremony, which took place on September 18 at the Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles.

Presenting the degree, only the second awarded by the school in its thirty-two year history, MI’s Vice President of Education Beth Marlis remarked, “Steve Vai has not only inspired countless musicians around the world and played a major role in the evolution of modern rock guitar, he also embodies MI’s ideal of the artist-educator who combines the relentless pursuit of his creative vision with a sense of responsibility for mentoring the next generation.”

Vai began his career as music transcriber for FRANK ZAPPA and went on to achieve international renown for his recordings and tours with ZAPPA, ALCATRAZZ, DAVID LEE ROTH and WHITESNAKE as well as his innovative solo work. Vai’s latest concert DVD, Where the Wild Things Are, which he premiered in August 2009 exclusively for MI students and staff, was released on September 29 (hear samples at

this location).

Since 1977, Musicians Institute (MI) has trained thousands of graduates for careers in every genre of contemporary music. From the beginning, MI revolutionized music education with hands-on, intensive, performance-based programs taught by working professionals. Today, MI’s unique, innovative approach includes degree and certificate programs for career-minded guitarists, bassists, drummers, vocalists, keyboardists, audio engineers, independent artists, guitar makers, music business professionals and filmmakers.