Sven Arne Tepl, Head of Classical Music: ‘Throughout the years, Jan Kouwenhoven has made a huge contribution to the oboe section. Especially through his innovative way of teaching and his audition training lessons, he will continue to develop the study programme in the next years.'

Jan Kouwenkoven (Zaandam, 1950) studied oboe at the Amsterdams Conservatorium with Cees van der Kraan, then principal oboist with the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. Jan played with all Dutch radio orchestras, the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, and he was principal oboist with the Concertgebouw Chamber Orchestra. Additionally, he played chamber music with various ensembles.

He has been principal subject teacher at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam since 2003. He also teaches the Orchestral Practice course, a course to prepare students for auditions.