Johnny Marr honoured by University

Students celebrating the award of their degrees at the University’s graduation ceremony on Thursday 19 July shared the stage with a legend of the Manchester music scene, as former Smiths songwriter and guitarist Johnny Marr received an honorary doctorate.

Marr, who became a visiting professor of popular music at Salford in 2007, became a Doctor of Arts in recognition of his outstanding achievements in a music career spanning four decades which changed the face of British guitar music.

Accepting his honorary degree, Marr said: “I’ve had a great time with my association with Salford University as visiting professor. The seminars have been a lot of fun and a good learning process for me.

“I’ve really enjoyed meeting the students – they’ve been an inspiration to me as much as I have to them, and I look forward to more work with the University in future.”