Julian Edelman showed off his musical side during a special appearance at Symphony Hall on Wednesday night.

The Patriots wide receiver took the stage as a guest conductor for the Boston Pops’ rendition of “The Stars and Stripes Forever’’ at the annual Presidents at the Pops fundraising event.

Prior to the performance, Edelman got a quick lesson from conductor Keith Lockhart, who is celebrating his 20th anniversary with the Pops this year. The Pats star seemed pretty confident about his conducting skills before Wednesday’s show, and joked about his “experience’’ in the music scene.

“I did L.A. a couple of years ago, New York 10 years ago. I tried to get into San Fransisco but they wouldn’t let me in,’’ Edelman told Boston.com. “Keith, going on his 20th year, it’s an honor to come and do this for that huge feat and I’m excited and looking forward to it.’’

Keith Lockhart gave Julian Edelman a behind-the-scenes conducting lesson at Boston Symphony Hall on June 3. —Kayana Szymczak for the Boston Globe


While Edelman prefers the gridiron to the orchestra, music has always played a role in his life.

“My dad was a pianist, but it was always sports for me,’’ Edelman said. “I listen to music all day long when I have free time. It helps you with everything, you know. Stress relief, getting you pysched—a little bit of everything.’’

The Super Bowl champion wasn’t the only star at Symphony Hall on Wednesday night.

Brookline native and The Daily Show comedian John Hodgman performed his humorous narration to Benjamin Britten’s “The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra.’’ Tony Award nominee Michael Cavanaugh also made an appearance.

“Going out and doing what people of Boston do, and getting to experience this night, it’s going to be a special night and I’m looking forward to it,’’ Edelman said. “Anytime you get to go out into the community and support another group that does a lot for the community, it’s a great thing.’’

2015 Patriots schedule