We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in Classical Voice & Opera, Denise Bayraktar, to share what draws her to this art form and how she supports singers at every stage of their journey. In this Q&A, Denise discusses the expressive power of the human voice, her highly individualized and goal-oriented teaching approach, and the importance of body awareness as the foundation of healthy, expressive singing.
We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in Ear Training, Jessica Viner, to share why this often-overlooked skill plays such a vital role in musical growth. In this Q&A, Jessica discusses ear training as the foundation for strong singing, songwriting, and composing, and reflects on her commitment to building confidence and keeping learning enjoyable.
We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in Bossa Nova Guitar, João Vasconcelos, to share his perspective on teaching this rich and expressive musical style. In this Q&A, João reflects on growing up immersed in bossa nova through his family, the importance of deep listening in developing an authentic feel for the genre, and the thoughtful, well-equipped home studio he uses for online teaching.
We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in Native American Style Flute, Ami Sarasvati, to share her perspective on teaching and musical growth. In this Q&A, Ami reflects on the intention she brings to each lesson, the thoughtfully designed studio space that supports her work, and her emphasis on slow, mindful practice.
We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in Gospel Piano & Mountain Dulcimer, Rhonda Clark, to share insights into her connection to music and her approach to teaching. In this Q&A, Rhonda reflects on her passion for piano as a foundational instrument, the accessibility and joy of the mountain dulcimer, and the rich, instrument-filled environment of her teaching studio.
We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in Loog Certified Guitar, Gina Sobel, to share what inspires her approach to teaching beginning guitarists. In this Q&A, Gina highlights the Loog guitar as an accessible, confidence-building entry point for kids and adults alike, and reflects on helping students start making music quickly while developing a genuine connection to the instrument.
We spoke with 2025 Lessonface Double Bass Teacher of the Year, David Jerkovic, about his journey as a performer and educator. In this Q&A, David shares what first drew him to the double bass and how he views the instrument as both the rhythmic foundation and an expressive, versatile voice. He discusses the importance of creating a calm, intentional teaching environment, building trust between student and teacher, and approaching challenges as a natural part of growth.
We spoke with 2025 Lessonface Saxophone Teacher of the Year, Andrew Larsen, about his journey as a performer and educator. In this Q&A, Andrew shares what first drew him to the saxophone, how he creates a student-centered and supportive teaching environment, and the mindset he encourages students to adopt as they build both skill and confidence.
We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in French Horn, Olivier Blakney, to share insights into his journey as a French horn musician and educator. In this Q&A, he reflects on what first drew him to the instrument and the rich emotional range that makes the French horn such a compelling voice.
We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in Bagpipes, Toni Cline, to share insights into her connection to the instrument and her approach to teaching. In this Q&A, Toni reflects on what first drew her to the bagpipes, how she uses the Lessonface platform to support effective online lessons, and the practice habits she believes lead to real progress.
