Meet 2025 Teacher of the Year for Mandolin Rachel Coats

We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in Mandolin, Rachel Coats, to share insights into her work as both a performer and educator. In this Q&A, she talks about what drew her to the mandolin, why it’s such a versatile and exciting instrument, and how she approaches teaching with patience and creativity. She also offers a peek into her cozy Nashville studio, shares essential gear and resources for students, and highlights the lasting lessons she hopes her students carry with them.

What drew you to learning the Mandolin?

Mandolin seemed like a fun combination of violin and guitar related skills, so I started learning how to play while teaching it, alongside the other stringed instruments (bass, cello, viola etc.) I think many folks get excited about the idea of it being really small with fewer strings to learn. 

Why do you think it is popular?

What I’ve discovered is how versatile of an instrument it is with so many different chord voicing options as well as the ability to play melodies interspersed.

How would you describe your teaching studio? 

My space is very cozy, facing the Cumberland River in West Nashville. I love having a space centered around peace and calmness, which allows for any and all creative exploration.

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

While impossible, I wish they could just know all of the scales and keys inherently- then we could cut straight to all the fun stuff. But instead these things come with time and gradual familiarity through songs and exercises.. which is okay! You gotta earn that stuff the hard way! 

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

I hope folks walk away having a better sense of patience for themselves through taking the time to really learn how to do something new.

What are some of your most indispensable pieces of gear?

A must have Mando gear: Mando capo! The guitar capos are just too big, and a capo in general helps you get to a more functional key to play your favorite song :)

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

Everyone should also have their own dedicated tuner - I recommend the clip on Poly Tune tuner for accuracy and durability.

Are there apps / texts / other resources you often recommend?

The main app I consistently use for Kasons and personal practice is the Pro Metronome App... it’s the best of its kind for the price. For books, I always recommend the Hal Leonard Mandolin method book series I and II.

Is there anything else you would like to share with potential students about the mandolin?

If you select me, you’re getting a teacher who can also guide you on other instruments later on down the road. Over the years I’ve had many students explore beyond their first instrument into others such as guitar, bass and singing (even while playing). There really are no limits as to where your musical journey can take you. I’d love to help guide you along your way!

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

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