News
Former Marching 110 Director Passes Away
By: Cheri Russo
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A former director of the Ohio University Marching 110 has passed away.
Current Director Richard Suk says Ronald Socciarelli died last night.
"I got a text late last night," says Suk.
Socciarelli was the leader of the Marching 110 from 1973-1990.
"The Marching 110 is deeply saddened by the passing of Ron Socciarelli," says Suk. "In addition to being a great band director, he touched the lives of many students through his commitment to excellence and his compassion for his students."
A post on the Marching 110 Drumline Facebook page says, "It is a with a heavy heart to report the passing of Mr. Ronald P. Socciarelli, former director of the Marching 110 from 1973-1990. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten."
Ohio University President Roderick McDavis says, "We are very saddened to learn of the passing of Director Emeritus of Bands Ronald Socciarelli."
A piece done by NPR in 1988 features an interview with Socciarelli. You can listen to it above.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. Caring, inspirational, and devoted are words former students and colleagues use to describe a man who touched countless lives during his notable tenure as a professor of music and director of bands, most especially The Marching 110," says McDavis. "He has left an indelible mark on our university and our School of Music and we are very grateful to him for this legacy.”