The College of Arts & Media is saddened to share that Tom VanSchoick, long-time lecturer of percussion studies, passed away on Friday, September 6, 2019.

VanSchoick was a member of the Music & Entertainment Studies faculty for nearly two decades. His enthusiasm for percussion, culture, and musical folklore and culture was palpable. With unmatched charisma he lead the student percussion ensemble and was a favorite faculty member among students and colleagues.

VanSchoick received his B.M.E. from the University of Montana and a M.M. from the University of Northern Colorado. He was principal percussionist with the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra and performed with the Fort Collins and Cheyenne Symphony Orchestras, the Russell Peck percussion trio, The Glory and the Grandeur.

"Tom VanSchoick represented the best in what it means to be a musician…a passion for learning & performing and a desire to share those with others," said fellow Percussion Instructor, Todd Reid. "His presence and enthusiasm are sorely missed here in the Music & Entertainment Industry Studies department."

A dedicated collaborator, VanSchoick has played and recorded with Front Range jazz pianist Marc Sabatella, releasing 3 CDs—Marc Sabatella and the Spanish Inquisition (Golden Horn), Second Course (Cadence Jazz Records), and Falling Grace (Outside Shore Music). In 1998, VanSchoick toured and performed in Havana with Caribbean Music and Dance, indulging his passion for folkloric and Afro-Cuban music. He also toured as a sponsor with Greeley Central High School choir, band, and orchestra to Ireland, Austria, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, and Paris (excerpt from the Fort Collins Symphony website). Additionally, he apperaed on two recordings with saxophonist Keith Oxman, “Between the Lion & the Twins” (2008) and “I’m Doin’ Alright” (2009), both for Capri Records, LTD.

VanSchoick will be remembered fondly by the College of Arts & Media and the Colorado music community.