COOKEVILLE – Local music instructor Kat Starr, head teacher and owner of Kat Starr Music, is recently selected for special commendation as one of Tennessee’s outstanding educators. Starr is recognized by the students, faculty and staff of the Governor’s School for the Arts, Middle Tennessee State University after being nominated by one of her current students.
The participating students in the Tennessee Governor’s School for the Arts are given an opportunity each year to recognize a teacher who made a significant educational and artistic influence in that student’s life. Starr is merited with the “Outstanding Teacher Award” by the Governor’s School for the Arts after being nominated by Chance Earles.
“I’m really humbled by winning this. It’s an honor to get to do what I love for a living in Cookeville, but to be recognized in this way feels really special,” said Starr.
Starr has been bringing out the musician in her students for 12 years. The students of Kat Starr Music are taught a working knowledge of music theory, instructed on techniques to create a beautiful sound and perform yearly recitals at the Cookeville Performing Arts Center for the community to enjoy.
“My biggest hope for all my students is not necessarily that they all go on to become professional musicians, but that they always have music in their lives as something they can turn to for relaxation, expression and personal development,” said Starr. “It means a lot to me that one of my students was moved enough by their lessons to nominate me for this award. I love Cookeville, and I look forward to many more years of serving this area with my fellow teachers. I’m so grateful to the Governor’s School faculty, staff and students for this honor.”
