West Virginia University Director of Bands Scott Tobias has been named the 2024 West Virginia Bandmaster of the Year.

The award was presented to Tobias by the Tau Chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity, an international honorary co-ed fraternity of band directors. Retired Associate Dean of WVU’s College of Creative Arts John Hendricks and Retired George Washington High School Band Director Mark Hardman surprised Tobias with the award during WVU Wind Symphony’s final concert of the semester on Monday, April 22.

“Scott Tobias was certainly the logical choice for this year's award due to the standard of excellence he has achieved as WVU's Director of Bands and conductor of the WVU Wind Symphony,” Hendricks said. “This ensemble's impressive performances have been indicative of Scott's outstanding abilities as a conductor and teacher. Under his leadership, the WVU Wind Symphony was of the few collegiate ensembles to be selected to perform at the March 2024 Southern Division Conference of the College Band Directors National Association in Memphis.”

Tobias joined the WVU faculty in 2016 following roles at the University of Central Florida and Appalachian State University. He also previously served as a high school band director in the public schools of Georgia and South Carolina.

“Receiving any award or recognition is always special,” Tobias said. “This award from Phi Beta Mu is even more so due to the fact that it comes from peers - fellow band directors doing the same work. I am honored that my colleagues have chosen to recognize me in this way.”