While Smith was introducing the deans who would speak at the meeting, music suddenly filled the Faculty Room.

Somewhere in University Hall, an enthusiastic musician, unaware of his audience, played an upbeat jazz tune on the piano.

Smith, with a slight smile, continued with his announcements.

“Dean Allan Brandt—with music,” Smith said, introducing the Dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

The music continued, but undaunted, Smith went on to introduce the next speaker.

“Dean Hammonds, with musical accompaniment,” he added.

—Staff writer Gautam S. Kumar can be reached at gkumar@college.harvard.edu.

—Staff writer Julia L. Ryan can be reached at jryan@college.harvard.edu.