Marching band's Gephart to step down, continue work as chair

Jay Gephart, the fifth director of Purdue's "All-American" Marching Band and chair of bands and orchestras, will step down from leading the marching band after the Fall 2024 Semester, Purdue bands announced.

Gephart has been director of the "All-American" Marching Band since 2006, and has led the flagship band as its national profile has risen.

Under Gephart’s lead, the band has consistently appeared in the Indy 500, went to eight bowl games, and was the first Big Ten marching band to perform at the Macy’s Thanksgiving parade.

As chair of bands, Gephart oversaw the department's growth and development through the 2022 completion of Hagle Hall, the new home of Purdue Bands and Orchestras.

In a statement made by the marching band's Instagram page, Gephart will continue to chair the bands, and be an active professor.

"Professor Gephart will continue to chair the bands and orchestras department, direct the wind ensemble, and conduct other indoor ensembles," the release said.