Meet 2025 Teacher of the Year for Bagpipes Toni Cline

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. She emphasizes the importance of consistent daily practice, especially focused time on the practice chanter, encourages students of all ages, and highlights dedication and repetition as the foundation for strong, confident bagpipe performance.

What drew you to learning about the bagpipes?

One thing that drew me to Bagpipes, it touched my heart and warmed my spirit.

How would you describe your teaching studio? 

The Lessonface online platform works great. My teaching space works just fine.

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

That sometimes you like to practice. Other times, not so much. But, you'll love the results!

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

You need a practice Chanter and 15 minutes a day.

Anything you'd like to share about yours or your students’ accomplishments from 2025?

All ages can do great on the pipes! Children ages 10 to 15 learn very quickly with stunning results!

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

To encourage students to practice daily because the quality of your practice determines the caliber of your performance.

If you are interested in learning more about Toni 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!