WORCESTER, Mass. (AP) - A renowned organist has been accused of sexual misconduct and resigned his posts at colleges in Massachusetts and Ohio.
The Boston Globe reports that a group of former students at the College of Holy Cross in Worcester allege that James David Christie sexually abused them while they were at the school.
Holy Cross says Christie has stepped down from his post as distinguished artist-in-residence.
Christie has also resigned from Oberlin College and Conservatory, where he was a professor.
Oberlin College spokesman Scott Wargo told the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram that on Aug. 10, the college’s Title IX coordinator took a report alleging that James David Christie, professor of organ, had violated Oberlin’s sexual misconduct policy by engaging in inappropriate behavior with students.
The college informed Christie of the allegations Aug. 11 and immediately placed him on administrative leave pending an investigation, Wargo said in an email. At that point, Christie tendered his resignation.
Christie didn't respond to multiple telephone calls or emails from the Globe seeking comment.
Christie also played with the Boston Symphony Orchestra for years.
The orchestra said it had been unaware of the allegations against him and has "no plans to engage him for future performances with the orchestra."
