Virgil Syverson was a longtime band teacher at Williston High School. According to his obituary, Mr. Syverson, a Minnesota native, came to Williston in 1947 to head up the music programs at Williston High School. Widely known as “Mr. Music” in western North Dakota, Syverson was a positive influence for thousands of students and an inspiring role model for countless music educators.
He was recognized nationally for his contributions to the music world, receiving the Legion of Honor medal from the John Philip Sousa Foundation and the lifetime achievement award from the Phi Beta Mu music fraternity and Concordia College Alumni Achievement Award.
He was band director at Williston public schools for 39 years, the founder and director of the Williston Cowboys Drum and Bugle Corps for 54 years, and conductor of the Williston City Band for 42 years.
The amphitheater at Harmon Park is named in his honor.
Syverson brought Williston musicians across international borders, touring with the Drum and Bugle Corps to Norway, Canada and elsewhere.
This scholarship is sponsored by Gary Montgomery and his wife Tracy Stein.
Scholarship amount: $500
2017 Virgil Syverson Memorial Music Scholarship Winner