End of an era: Van Oyen signs off with final performance at North Central College

Posted April 07, 2026 5:14 pm

By Alexandra Sheeler, North Central College

When the North Central College Concert Winds present their final concert of the 2025-26 season on Saturday, April 11, it will mark not just the end of the season, but the end of a legendary career.

This special performance will serve as the send-off for Dr. Lawrence Van Oyen, who will retire at the conclusion of the academic year.

Van Oyen has served as director of bands and instructor of saxophone at North Central College since 1992. Over more than three decades, he has built a strong reputation for musical excellence, leading the Concert Winds to recognition for their technical precision and musicianship.

During his tenure, Van Oyen has received awards for distinguished teaching and leadership at North Central, and he has contributed to interdisciplinary research exploring connections between math, music, and art.

He is also the founder and director of Chords for Kids, an annual sensory-friendly concert at North Central College for children with special needs and their families. In addition to his work at the college, he is an active clinician, adjudicator, and performer throughout the Midwest.

Lawrence Van Oyen, shown directing an ensemble, is retiring this spring after serving as North Central College’s director of bands and instructor of saxophone since 1992. Courtesy of North Central College

The April 11 concert offers the community an opportunity to celebrate Van Oyen’s lasting impact on North Central College and the many students he has mentored throughout his career.

The Concert Winds Spring Concert will be at 7 p.m. in Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Ave, Naperville. Tickets are $7. Visit northcentralcollege.edu/show.