Shepherd School: New Viola Professors Join Faculty

The Shepherd School of Music at Rice University is undergoing a significant transition in its viola program, a quiet power move that speaks volumes about the enduring prestige of classical music education and the careful cultivation of talent. The appointments of Ori Kam and Stephen Wyrczynski as viola professors, set to begin in autumn 2027, signal a deliberate effort to maintain the school’s reputation for excellence following the retirements of longtime professors Ivo-Jan van der Werff and James Dunham.

This isn’t simply about replacing instructors; it’s about succession planning at an institution that consistently produces top-tier musicians. The Shepherd School isn’t courting household names for publicity – though both Kam and Wyrczynski have impressive performance credits – they’re securing established pedagogues with proven track records. The fact that both incoming professors are willing to visit the school throughout the next year to work with current and incoming students demonstrates a commitment to a smooth handover and a dedication to the students themselves.

The strategic timing is also noteworthy. Announcing these appointments now, well in advance of the actual transition, allows the school to leverage the prestige of the incoming professors for recruitment and fundraising. It’s a subtle but effective PR strategy: showcasing a forward-thinking vision while honoring the legacy of those departing. Wyrczynski stated he is “honored and excited to join the celebrated faculty” and looks forward to continuing Shepherd’s tradition, while Kam expressed admiration for the school’s “artistic vision and approach to pedagogy.” These statements aren’t just polite formalities; they’re carefully crafted messaging designed to reinforce the school’s brand identity.

The Shepherd School’s careful approach to this transition underscores the enduring value placed on mentorship and tradition within the classical music world. While pop music often thrives on disruption, classical institutions like this one understand that preserving quality requires a long-term perspective and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists. The appointments of Kam and Wyrczynski suggest the school is poised to continue its legacy of shaping exceptional violists for years to come.