By Chris Barber
Contributing Writer

Tim Blair, president of the Kennett Symphony of Chester County Board of Directors, was honored at the 2025 Music Teachers National Association conference in Minneapolis earlier this month.

He earned the MTNA Citation for Leadership which, according to the association’s announcement, is “given only at special times to recognize significant and lasting contributions to MTNA, music teachers and the music teaching profession.”

The MTNA is a prestigious association that holds annual conferences which include honors, exhibits and performances.

Blair appeared surprised when orchestra’s music director and conductor Michael Hall appeared from behind him during opening greetings at Sunday’s concert in Longwood Gardens and announced the news to a sold-out audience.

“I’ll see you later,” Blair announced to Hall jokingly.

Blair has a lifelong history of musical excellence and service, including 20 years dean emeritus at West Chester University and founding dean of the college’s of Arts and Humanities.

He is also an accomplished and nationally honored pianist as well as the national chair of development for the MTNA. 

He recently contributed a major grant that enhances the operations of the Kennett Symphony. He has been honored by the Chester County Community Foundation for creating the Timothy V. Blair & Sally M. Coveleskie Legacy Fund, He currently serves as the chair of development for the MTNA. 

The Kennett Symphony Orchestra’s next concert is at the outdoor stage in Longwood Gardens on June 26.