Goshen High School Band (Indiana)

Tom Cox and Josh Kaufman have served as directors of the Goshen High School Band for more than two decades (Tom for 25 years, Josh for 20). Under their leadership, Goshen has developed into one of the most well-rounded band programs in Indiana. Their ensembles have consistently earned placements in the Marching Band State Finals, Concert Band State Finals, Jazz Ensemble State Finals, Winter Percussion State Finals, Winter Guard State Finals, and Solo and Ensemble State Finals.

The program has performed across the country in cities such as New York, Atlanta, Myrtle Beach, Boston, and Orlando, earning numerous Grand Champion titles at festivals and competitions. The marching band has also represented Goshen internationally in London, England, and at major bowl games in Dallas and Phoenix.

Tom Cox is a graduate of Ball State University and earned his master’s degree from the American Band College of Southern Oregon University, where he was the first-ever recipient of the Coups de Vent Award (Valedictorian). He has been recognized with the Sousa Foundation’s Legion of Honor for his contributions to music education, served 18 years on the Indiana State School Music Association State Board, received the Indiana Music Educators Association’s Outstanding Music Educator Award (2020), and was named Outstanding Bandmaster by Phi Beta Mu Indiana in 2024.

Josh Kaufman earned a B.A. in Physics and Music with a minor in Education from Goshen College in 1997 and a Master of Music in Saxophone Performance from the University of Northern Colorado in 2000, graduating Magna Cum Laude from both institutions. A former member of the Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps (1993–1995), he served as Brass Sergeant for the World Champion 1995 Cavaliers. Before joining Goshen, he taught in southwest Denver (1999–2005), where the Sheridan High School marching band won two state championships, earned two runner-up finishes, and advanced to the state finals in concert band.

Both directors are active members of Phi Beta Mu, the Indiana Music Educators Association, and the Indiana Bandmasters Association, and both have been recognized as Michigan Outstanding Music Educators.

Most recently, the Goshen Band was honored with the Dr. William P. Foster Community Development Award, recognizing directors who provide students with strong musical experiences while making a lasting, positive impact on their school and community.