05/20/2026
This spring, we celebrate the legacies of two distinguished faculty members who are retiring after decades of transformative mentorship. We are deeply grateful for their dedication.
Ivo-Jan van der Werff, Professor of Viola, retires after 19 years of distinguished teaching at the Shepherd School. Since joining the faculty in 2007, Ivo has been a cornerstone of our string department, a devoted teacher known as much for his steadfast dedication as his infectious humor. He brought to Rice the world-class expertise of a 30-year career with the Medici String Quartet and a prolific recording history spanning the complete Beethoven string quartet cycle to the Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings soundtracks. Beyond his global reputation as a chamber player, recitalist, and guest artist, his brilliance as a pedagogue is reflected in the success of his students, who now occupy chairs in many of the world’s most prestigious orchestras.
Janet Rarick, Associate Professor of Music Career Development, retires after a remarkable 33-year tenure at Shepherd. Since joining us in 1992, Janet has been at the heart of our professional development programs. Formerly the Principal Oboist of the Texas Chamber Orchestra and a core member of the Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera Orchestras for over 20 years, Janet brought a wealth of professional experience to her many roles at Shepherd, including directing JUMP! (Just For U Music Program) and her specialized work teaching Alexander Technique. A deeply supportive mentor, her commitment to nurturing the "whole musician" has ensured that our graduates enter the professional world with both skill and confidence.
