WVU Marching Band Honors Legacy of Its 13 Directors Over 123 Years
The West Virginia University (WVU) Mountaineer Marching Band, affectionately known as “The Pride of West Virginia,” has a storied history spanning over 123 years. Throughout this time, thirteen dedicated individuals have led the band, each leaving a unique imprint on its evolution and success.([wvutoday.wvu.edu][1])
The band’s journey began in 1901 under the leadership of Walter Mestrezat, a Spanish-American War veteran. Initially an all-male ROTC ensemble with just eight members, Mestrezat expanded the band to approximately 70 members by the time of his retirement in 1938. His 37-year tenure remains the longest in the band’s history. ([en.wikipedia.org][2], [wvmetronews.com][3])
Subsequent decades saw the band flourish under directors like Larry Intravaia and Budd Udell in the 1950s and 1960s. Udell’s arrangements of “Fight Mountaineers” and “Hail West Virginia” during this era became enduring staples of the band’s repertoire. ([en.wikipedia.org][2])
A significant transformation occurred in 1971 when Don Wilcox took the helm. Confronted with an all-male band of 88 members, Wilcox championed inclusivity by admitting women in 1972, a move that initially met resistance but ultimately enriched the band’s diversity and talent. Under his leadership, the band expanded to over 325 members and achieved national acclaim, including receiving the prestigious Sudler Trophy in 1997. ([wvmetronews.com][4], [magazine-archive.wvu.edu][5], [wvmetronews.com][3])
Following Wilcox’s retirement in 2005, John Hendricks briefly served as director before Jay Drury assumed the role as the 11th director. Drury’s tenure was marked by notable performances, including leading the band in the 2016 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. ([en.wikipedia.org][2], [wvutoday.wvu.edu][1])
In 2017, Scott Tobias stepped in as the 12th director, overseeing the band’s transition during a national search for a permanent successor. The following year, Stephen Lytle was appointed, bringing with him extensive experience as a music arranger and educator. ([wvmetronews.com][6], [wvutoday.wvu.edu][7])
The most recent leadership change came in 2020 when Cheldon Williams was named the 13th director. Williams, with a rich background in music education and previous roles at institutions like The University of Texas at Austin, continues to uphold the band’s tradition of excellence. ([wvutoday.wvu.edu][8])
Each director’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping the Mountaineer Marching Band into the esteemed ensemble it is today. Their collective legacy is a testament to the enduring spirit and pride that define “The Pride of West Read more
