A musical celebration of the life of Jim Akins, associate professor of tuba and euphonium, will be held on Sunday, March 22 at 2 p.m. in Weigel Auditorium. As part of the musical celebration of life, the family invites former students to join the Ohio State tuba and euphonium studio (sign up below) to perform a selection of Jim's favorites, including Wagner's Elsa's Procession to the Cathedral, led by Jon Waters. This tribute service will also include recordings selected from Jim's performance career, live tribute performances, and spiritual leadership from Jim's pastor and friend, Dick Wing.
Sign up to perform at Jim Akins' Celebration of Life
As a low brass professor, Jim was a beloved and inspiring presence for students, colleagues and audiences for many years. Jim was a colleague and friend of remarkable creativity and artistry — someone whose musicianship, imagination and quiet excellence shaped the culture of brass performance at Ohio State.
Jim came to Ohio State as a student in 1974 and was hired in a tenure-track position in 1994. He served as Associate Professor of Tuba and Euphonium and was principal tuba of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra beginning in 1981. Jim was also a member of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet and the Ohio Brass Quintet. Alongside his work as a performer and teacher, Jim contributed to the broader field through master classes and recitals across the country, and through his work as a clinician and consultant supporting the development of professional tubas — efforts that reflected both his artistry and his curiosity in improving the instrument itself. He also carried a deep commitment to flute-making and performance within a Native American tradition, bringing that same creativity and care to this work as both maker and musician.
Within our community, Jim’s impact was perhaps felt most powerfully in the lives of his students. He was a steady mentor — helping students grow, find their musical voice, and prepare for the profession — while showing, every day, what it means to lead with craft and imagination. His influence will continue through the many alumni and colleagues who carry his lessons forward.
Please read the complete obituary listing at Rutherford Funeral Homes/James Akins/Obituary.
All events are subject to change.
Getting Here
Two garage options:
Arps Garage (open to visitors M–F after 4 p.m. and on weekends) — located just north of the Timashev Music building.
- A good choice for events in the Timashev Recital Hall, just inside the north end of the building.
Ohio Union South Garage (open to visitors 24/7) — located just south of the Timashev Music building, next to the Ohio Union.
- A good choice for events in Weigel Auditorium, just inside the south end of the building, across from the Oval.
- The only choice for visitors M–F, before 4 p.m.
Weigel Auditorium is on the second floor, via a staircase in the south lobby.
- The elevator to Weigel Auditorium is in the back hallway, located behind the Music Commons.