COLUMBUS – Ohio State University’s interim marching band director has been named its permanent director.
Christopher Hoch has been interim director since last May. He replaced Jonathan Waters, who was fired after an internal investigation concluded he ignored a “sexualized culture” inside the band. Waters disputes those findings.
Hoch and Waters were among 25 people who applied to lead the celebrated marching band. Hoch joined Ohio State in 2012 as assistant and then associate director of marching and athletic bands. As interim director he has been responsible for overseeing all elements of show design as well as band tryouts, music rehearsals, student staff and other administrative responsibilities.
“Over the past year, Chris Hoch has proven himself on and off the field with our world-class marching band,” said Bruce A. McPheron, interim executive vice president and provost. “He has shown focus toward putting our students first and as director, will be expected to continue to instill in students the highest standard for their personal conduct, on and off the field.”
In addition to his band director responsibilities, Hoch will be a member of the faculty in the School of Music.
The university said Wednesday his appointment is effective June 1 through May 31, 2020. It still must be approved by the school’s board of trustees.
Other applicants included professors and band leaders from other Big Ten schools, such as Michigan State University, the University of Maryland, Purdue University and Penn State University.