By JOSEPH W. POLISI

"What does the Juilliard centennial have to do with me?"

Some students may be asking themselves that question. I'd like to try to answer it for them.

It's doubtful that the students who walked through the doors of the brand-new Institute of Musical Art on October 11, 1905, were thinking about becoming a part of history. On that autumn day 100 years ago—the opening day of classes at Juilliard's predecessor institution—they, like yourselves, were budding young artists with one basic goal in mind: perfecting their art. They were probably concerned with the things that most young conservatory students think about: their next lesson, their grades, performing well in the next concert or recital, and, more fundamentally, what their futures held in store.

But a century later, with hindsight as our vantage point, we know that those students—and every student who has since walked these halls, sat in these classrooms, spent hour upon hour in our practice rooms and rehearsal studios, and performed on our illustrious stages—have been part of a continuum of history. Every musician, actor, or dancer who has chosen to nurture his or her talents here has helped shaped the history of the performing arts in the United States and around the world.

In my 21 years serving as president of this remarkable institution I have witnessed each successive class of young performers—guided by the artistry of Juilliard's peerless faculty—go out into the world to share their passion for the arts with their audiences. In so doing, they have become links in an unbreakable chain of talented and dedicated students and alumni who stretch from 1905 to the present and beyond.

So what does all of this have to do with you? The short answer: Everything. Because you are the newest links in this chain, and as such, you are bound to those who came before you and those who will come after you. The 2005-06 centennial season is a time not only to celebrate Juilliard's past, but the present and the future.

I invite you to celebrate the School's centennial with us proudly, and partake in all that Juilliard has to offer during this milestone year. One hundred years from now, when those who follow us look back, they will no doubt experience the same sense of awe that we have for the many artists who have paved the way for us to be here today. It is a great privilege for us all to share this moment in time, and to be able to say: Happy 100th birthday, Juilliard!

Joseph W. Polisi is the sixth president of The Juilliard School.