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Taking into account I went many years ago, I learned a ton from Jim. Especially when it comes to orchestral playing and musicality in general. I would give him a call and schedule a lesson. This would give you some first hand knowledge and if you have time and this is not for school year 2012-2013, watch some of the ensembles, etc. It is not all about one teacher, but the school and most importantly your own drive. No one is really going to care if you make it more than you!

If you want to become a player, you need to play. OSU and central Ohio will afford you lots of opportunities that "major" markets with overcrowded talent pools may not. When I was a TA at OSU, I played a lot, including at CSO, and could have played more.

Jim is an excellent player, a terrific human being, and knows how to convey the art. Since I attended during Bob LeBlanc's tenure, I never personally studied with Jim, but heard him play and lecture in studio classes.

Bottom line: Your personal ambition and work ethic are at least as important as a big name teacher. But Jim Akins has been around long enough to warrant your consideration.