Guitar legend Steve Vai has been awarded an honorary Doctor Of Music degree by the Musicians Institute.
The multiple-Grammy winning shredder also gave the keynote speech for the graduating class of 2009 in Los Angeles on 18 September, as the recipient of only the second honorary doctorate awarded in the school´s history.
“Steve has not only inspired countless musicians around the world and played a major role in the evolution of modern rock guitar," said Vice President of Education Beth Marlis.
"He also embodies MI´s ideal of the artist-educator who combines relentless pursuit of his creative vision with a sense of responsibility for mentoring the next generation.”