Meet 2025 Teacher of the Year for Harmonica Federico Linari

We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in Harmonica, Federico Linari, to share insights into his connection to music and his approach to teaching. In this Q&A, Federico reflects on the importance of patience in learning the harmonica, the value of enjoying the learning process, and creating lessons that spark curiosity and joy in making music. He emphasizes steady practice, having fun along the way, and keeping things accessible, showing that with a simple 10-hole harmonica and an open mindset, anyone can begin their musical journey.

If you could gift your students one piece of automatic knowledge or ability about the harmonica, what would it be? 

If I could gift my students one automatic ability, it would be patience. In a world of instant gratification, learning an instrument like the harmonica requires time, repetition, and trial and error. Clean notes, bends, and blues riffs all come with steady practice — and I hope my students learn to enjoy that process.

What’s one lasting takeaway you hope your students will carry with them from your teaching, even years from now?

What I truly wish my students carry with them is the feeling of learning something new — that spark of curiosity and motivation that keeps you going. And, above all, I hope they look back on our lessons and remember that they had a good time making music.

What are some gear items that you wish all your students had? 

You just need a 10 hole harmonica in the key of C, like a Hohner Rocket. Super easy to get started! We usually use a tablature (TAB) system, which means that reading standard notation won’t be necessary, at least to get started.

If you are interested in learning more about Federico or would like to book a lesson with him, please visit his Lessonface profile here. 

Also, be sure to check out all of Lessonface’s 2025 Teachers of the Year here!