We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in Artist Development, Jenessa Castano, to share her perspective on guiding singers and musicians through the artistic journey. In this Q&A, Jenessa discusses her passion for helping artists discover their unique voice, build confidence, and develop a sustainable, individualized path in music.
We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in Beatboxing, Paul Arnett, to share what first drew him to the art form and how he approaches teaching it today. In this Q&A, Paul reflects on discovering beatboxing through friends and early online influences, his decades-long journey of continual learning, and the calm, focused environment he creates for students.
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 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 Acting, Stephanie Barton-Farcas, to share insights into her journey as a working actor and educator. In this Q&A, she reflects on what drew her to acting, why understanding the realities of the entertainment industry is essential, and how she structures a focused, professional learning environment for her students.
We asked 2025 Lessonface Teacher of the Year in Worship Piano, Makayla S., to share insights into her journey as a musician and educator. In this Q&A, Makayla reflects on her transition from classical piano to worship piano, the challenges that inspired her teaching approach, and the musical skills essential for worship settings.
