John Egenes has performed in front of thousands, with high-profile musicians such as Lyle Lovett, Pete Seeger, Nanci Griffith, Jerry Jeff Walker and Guy Clark.
But never before has he felt the need to document any of his performances with a photo ... until Saturday.
The 65-year-old received a doctorate of musical arts in studio production during the first of the University of Otago's two graduation ceremonies at the Dunedin Town Hall, and also had the honour of providing music for the interlude.
He sang his songs Up for Air and Crack in the World with his trusty guitar, after telling the audience he was making the most of the moment because he would probably never get to play for such a large crowd again, while wearing graduation robes.
He then took out his mobile phone and took a selfie on stage.
"I had a bunch of people with floppy hats on stage behind me. It was wonderful. I was milking it for all it was worth.''
Dr Egenes said he moved to New Zealand 12 years ago, and more recently he has become a lecturer in contemporary music at the University of Otago.
Before that, he was a professional guitarist in New Mexico and Texas.
He said being called Dr Egenes would take some getting used to.
"I'm not used to it yet. It won't change anything.
"Although it might mean I'll get better seats on airlines.
"If that's the case, Dr John works for me.''
Dr Egenes said he was not looking to "flesh out'' his curriculum vitae when he began his doctorate.
Rather, it was because he was "the curious type'' and he was keen to keep learning.
"I've been a professional musician all my life, and then came to academia late, so what can I say?
"It's really an honour.''
Pianist Liew Jie Ying, of Singapore, also had the honour of performing at the second graduation ceremony on Saturday just hours after graduating with a master's degree in music performance (with distinction) in the first ceremony of the day.
The 26-year-old performed Dvorak's Slavonic Dance in A major for Four Hands, with University of Otago piano lecturer Terence Dennis.
"It was quite an honour . It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase what I have learned, in front of my peers,'' she said.
"Prof Dennis is one of the most sought-after pianists in New Zealand. To perform with him ... I don't know how to describe the feeling. I'm happy.
"It's rare. I don't think I would have got this chance to perform with such a highly respected musician if I had studied in Singapore,'' she said.
Miss Liew said she planned to stay in New Zealand, and was looking for work as a teacher and performer.
