A New Era for Viola at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music
The Shepherd School of Music at Rice University is poised for a significant transition in its viola program, welcoming Ori Kam and Stephen Wyrczynski as new professors beginning in the fall of 2027. This appointment marks the finish of an era with the retirements of esteemed professors Ivo-Jan van der Werff in spring 2026 and James Dunham in spring 2027.
Passing the Torch: A Legacy of Excellence
The transition isn’t abrupt. Joan DerHovsepian, currently principal viola of the Houston Symphony and instructor of orchestral repertoire, will lead the viola studio as a professor in the practice during the 2026-27 academic year. This ensures continuity for current students while Kam and Wyrczynski prepare to join the faculty. Both incoming professors will also visit the school in the next academic year to collaborate with students.
Introducing the New Professors
Stephen Wyrczynski brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music since 2010, alongside an 18-year career as a member of the Philadelphia Orchestra. His extensive chamber music collaborations include performances with renowned artists like Joshua Bell and Edgar Meyer. He has also held teaching positions at prestigious institutions such as the Curtis Institute of Music and the Aspen Music Festival and School.
Ori Kam’s background is equally impressive. Currently a professor at the Kunst-Universität Graz in Austria, he previously taught at the University of Geneva for 13 years. He is celebrated for his 15-year membership in the Jerusalem String Quartet and his founding of the Israel Chamber Music Society. Kam has performed as a soloist with numerous orchestras, including the Berlin Symphony and the Vienna Philharmonic.
The Future of Viola Pedagogy
Both professors expressed their enthusiasm for joining the Shepherd School. Wyrczynski highlighted his excitement to collaborate with Kam and continue the tradition of excellence established by Dunham and van der Werff. Kam echoed this sentiment, admiring the school’s artistic vision and pedagogical approach, which he feels aligns with his own values.
What This Means for Students
The arrival of Kam and Wyrczynski signals a continuation of the Shepherd School’s commitment to providing exceptional viola instruction. Students will benefit from the combined expertise of two internationally recognized violists, each with a distinct performance and teaching background. This dual perspective will offer a rich learning environment and prepare students for successful careers in performance and teaching.
FAQ
Q: When will Ori Kam and Stephen Wyrczynski officially begin their roles at Rice University?
A: They will both join the faculty in the fall of 2027.
Q: Who will lead the viola studio during the transition period?
A: Joan DerHovsepian, principal viola of the Houston Symphony, will serve as professor in the practice for viola in 2026-27.
Q: What is the significance of Ivo-Jan van der Werff and James Dunham’s retirement?
A: They are longtime, highly respected professors whose departure marks the end of an era for the Shepherd School’s viola program.
Q: Where have Stephen Wyrczynski and Ori Kam taught previously?
A: Wyrczynski has taught at Indiana University, Curtis Institute of Music, and Aspen Music Festival, among others. Kam has taught at the Kunst-Universität Graz and the University of Geneva.
Did you know? The Shepherd School of Music is consistently ranked among the top music schools in the United States.
Explore more about the Shepherd School of Music and its distinguished faculty.
d, without any additional comments or text.
[/gpt3]
