The University of Nevada, Reno’s School of Music welcomes an inspiring new voice to its faculty this fall: Beth Gibbs Ph.D., who joins as assistant professor, director of choral activities. A nationally respected conductor, educator and scholar, Gibbs brings a dynamic blend of artistry, academic rigor and community-minded leadership to the Choral Program.

For Gibbs, music is not just a profession, it’s a lifelong companion. “I come from a musical family and music has always been a part of my life,” she shares. From family singalongs with guitars to international performances, her journey has been steeped in song. “I come by it naturally,” she says. But it was a transformative moment in seventh grade, during her first time singing with the Florida All-State Choir, that set her firmly on the path to becoming a choral director. “That experience changed everything. I realized I wanted to be an inspiration to others.”

Over the years, Gibbs has become exactly that. Prior to her appointment at the University, she served as professor of music and director of choral studies at Florida Southern College, where she led ensembles and taught courses ranging from conducting to Caribbean music and music and wellness. Her academic credentials include a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in choral conducting from the University of Miami and dual master’s degrees in conducting and vocal performance from East Carolina University.

At the heart of her work is a student-centered philosophy grounded in inclusivity, collaboration and empowerment. “I want every singer to feel a sense of belonging and a collective ownership of each concert preparation,” she explains. “Through class discussions and activities, I hope to guide each student to be their most confident selves and an advocate for music in the community at large.”

Gibbs brings to Reno not only her pedagogical expertise but also an international perspective shaped by performances and teaching experiences across Europe and the Americas. From conducting at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to directing choirs in the Basque Country as a Fulbright Scholar, her work reflects a global sensibility. Her scholarship on Basque choral music is at the forefront of her current research, and she is thrilled to continue that work through collaborations with University of Nevada Reno’s renowned Center for Basque Studies. “It’s a rare and special opportunity,” she said. “I’m excited to bring my own skills to this community as well as to learn and grow from my new colleagues.”

As she settles into life in Reno, her first time living outside the southeastern U.S., Gibbs is eager to explore the region’s natural beauty and vibrant arts scene. But her sights are set firmly on the local community as well. A former high school choral director, she understands the importance of university partnerships with local schools. “I know how vital that connection is,” she said. “I will be sure to strengthen and maintain it.”

On campus, Gibbs envisions the choirs becoming a strong and visible presence in University life. “There are so many opportunities for us to be integrated into Wolf Pack culture,” she said. Her enthusiasm for collaboration is palpable and she speaks with excitement about the chance to build new musical traditions with students and audiences alike.

When asked if there’s a single piece or composer she returns to time and again, Gibbs smiles. “There’s so much to love in choral music. It’s impossible to choose. One of my favorite things about this art is the connection you make with certain pieces. They stay with you. Each chorister has those moments and I’m honored to be part of that journey with our students at the University.”

From the rehearsal room to the concert stage, Gibbs brings passion, depth and vision to the University of Nevada, Reno. Her arrival signals a thrilling new chapter for the School of Music, and for every voice ready to sing.