Meet the Artistic Director

A native of Lancaster, Ohio, William Wittman brings over 40 years of experience in music education and leadership. He holds degrees from Ohio University (BFA), Wright State University (MM), and completed doctoral coursework in Educational Leadership at Ohio University. Bill studied conducting under Dr. Myron Welch and was honored with the Wright State University Distinguished Alumni Award in 2002.

Bill's career began as Director of Bands for Lancaster City Schools, where his programs earned national recognition, including performances in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and Disney World. His Symphonic Band and Marching Band consistently received top ratings at District and State competitions. Bill later served as Director of Fine Arts Education for Newark City Schools, before becoming a school superintendent for Hamilton Local Schools and Tri-County Career Center in Nelsonville.

After retiring from education, Bill became the Director of Business and Trade Show Operations for the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA), continuing his advocacy for music education statewide.

Throughout his career, Bill has been deeply involved in the community, including 25 years as Director of The Jubilate Ringers at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Newark. He has also served as an adjudicator for OMEA, and helped select the Columbus Symphony Orchestra's Music Educator of the Year. Bill is also the Handbell Director for the Celebration Ringers at First Presbyterian Church in Lancaster and a Past-President of Phi Beta Mu.

In his retirement, Bill continues to be active in music education and enjoys spending time with his wife, Suzanne, their children, and grandchildren, all of whom are musically inclined.