'Berg hires former OSU band director

When the School of Music & Theatre set out to find a dynamic educator with equally strong qualifications in teaching and conducting to join an already talented faculty, they found their man in former Ohio State band director Jon Waters.

Waters will join Heidelberg’s faculty July 1 as assistant professor of music education and director of bands, continuing a tradition of excellence in music making at the university. At OSU, he was known for his highly creative and entertaining halftime shows.

“Mr. Waters’ educational and professional background provides the experience we believe will allow him to be very successful in this faculty position,” said Provost Dr. Beth Schwartz. Music professor Dr. Carol Dusdieker, who chaired the search committee, added that Waters “joins our faculty with the highest level of musicianship.”

Waters told the Columbus Dispatch that he’s excited to build the band program at Heidelberg. Coming from a high-profile institution such as OSU with a much larger band isn’t a factor. “To me, it doesn’t matter the size of the band. Music is music is music,” he told the Dispatch. “This gives me an opportunity to go and do the things I love.”

At Heidelberg, Waters will teach Symphonic Band, Athletic Band, Brass Methods, Instrumental Conducting, Tuba Applied Lessons and Instrumental Music Education in the Secondary Curriculum.

Dusdieker, who is set to take over as the associate dean of the School of Music & Theatre this summer, had high praise for Waters’ ability to connect with students and for his passion for music