November Teacher Spotlight: Cynthia Wright

Cynthia Wright is currently the Orchestra Director at Montgomery Ridge Intermediate School in Maryville, TN. Cynthia earned both Bachelor and Master of Music degrees in String Education from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Since starting her career in 2004, she has taught at Karns High School, West Valley Middle School, and Bearden High School in Knoxville, TN as well as at Roland-Grise Middle School in Wilmington, NC. Cynthia also enjoys serving on the conducting staff of the Knoxville Symphony Youth Orchestra Association. Being a part of this organization is how she first came to know the Bartel Family and the Baroque Violin Shop. Kathy Hart introduced her to Paul at a String Camp in the early 2000’s and Cynthia would later purchase her professional Violin from BVS. She is so grateful for the support that the BVS gives to teachers and to students!

Can you tell us about your school’s orchestra program?

There are 110 students in 5th—7th grade at MRIS. The Maryville City Schools Orchestra programs have a long standing tradition of excellence!

What instruments do you play/teach?

My main instrument is the Violin. Along with teaching Violin, I also teach Viola, Cello, and Bass.

How did your career in music get started?

When I was in high school I attended the Tennessee Governors School for the Arts and I decided I wanted to make music my career. I was fortunate to have amazing mentors who guided me along the way to becoming a music teacher. I am so thankful that I chose to teach Orchestra (17 years and counting)!

What’s your favorite song to perform?

I love to play Amazing Grace with double stops to relax. I also love to play from a solo Wedding Book that I have.

What are some of your other hobbies?

I love to run! I have run five 5K’s in 2020 and I am scheduled for at least one more. I also love spending time outside with my husband and two kids.

What has been your favorite moment as a teacher?

It has been such an honor for me to work with some of the best and brightest students at each school that I have taught. It would be so hard to pick a favorite moment. I love when students have been working hard to master a skill, or a technique, or a piece and they finally succeed! That moment is priceless.

What do you find to be the best motivator for students?

When students know you care about them, they will work hard in your class! Students crave belonging and I love being able to give them somewhere safe where they can be themselves and make music!

What are your future goals as a musician and teacher?

One day, I hope to be a clinician for an Orchestra Event. Also, I hope to be more involved at the state level.

How are you managing the challenges dealt to your school and orchestra related to COVID-19? What opportunities do you see?

This year has been full of challenges, but I am amazed at how resilient my students are! We have had so many changes and adjustments, but they never give up! I have found so many great opportunities to build relationships with students and their families.