Ron Forsh is more than a skilled band director — he’s a passionate educator, lifelong learner, and community advocate. A native of Myrtle Beach, he was raised in a musical family and has spent his career shaping lives through the transformative power of music education.
As the current band director at Clemmons Middle School (CMS) in Winston-Salem, Forsh has doubled enrollment in the band program since his arrival, inspiring countless students to strive for excellence. Under his leadership, CMS bands consistently earn superior and excellent ratings at contests and festivals, and his students frequently qualify for county, district, and state honor bands.
Forsh graduated with honors from Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) and went on to earn a master’s degree in music education and flute performance from UNC Greensboro (UNCG). His excellence as an educator was nationally recognized when he became a National Board Certified Teacher in 2024, specializing in early adolescent to young adulthood music.
His influence extends beyond the classroom. Forsh has mentored future educators as a student teacher supervisor for both WSSU and UNCG, led professional learning teams for band directors in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, and currently serves as a district president for NCMEA. He regularly writes for the state’s music education journal, and he’s in high demand across the Carolinas as a clinician and adjudicator, guiding students and programs at honor bands and competitions.
One of Forsh’s proudest achievements was starting an instrumental music program from scratch in one of the most challenging middle schools in the Bronx. That experience solidified his belief that music education can create opportunity, build confidence, and change lives, especially when students are empowered by dedicated, visionary teachers. Forsh is not just teaching music; he’s building a legacy of excellence, equity, and empowerment.
Recognized as Band Director of the Year in Forsyth County and honored as Teacher of the Year by the United Way, Forsh’s leadership represents the kind of integrity, advocacy, and innovation our schools and communities need. He resides in Winston-Salem with his three sons, Turner, Cassius, and Winston. In his free time, he enjoys composing, exercising, coaching basketball, and reading.
He is a proud member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. With so many dedicated educators in the field, what sets Forsh apart is his ability to lead with both experience and vision. He doesn’t just teach; he uplifts, inspires, and advocates. Forsh represents the kind of leadership education needs: rooted in the classroom, driven by excellence, and committed to the growth of every student and teacher.