Inspiring the Next Generation: Celebrating Ruby Mensforth, BBB Music Teacher Award Runner-Up 2025

At Bigger Better Brains, we are privileged to shine a spotlight on music educators who go above and beyond to inspire their students.

While there can only be one winner of the BBB Music Teacher Award, we also recognize the outstanding efforts of our 2025 Runner-Up, Ruby Mensforth—a teacher whose dedication to fostering a love of music has left a lasting impact on her students.

Ruby was nominated for her exceptional innovation and commitment to student-centered learning. Her approach blends traditional techniques with modern practices, making music accessible, exciting, and deeply engaging for students of all backgrounds and abilities.

She is not only a passionate teacher but also a mentor and advocate, ensuring her students feel supported both academically and emotionally.

Her nomination highlighted how this award would further empower her to experiment with new approaches, refine her teaching strategies, and strengthen her advocacy for music education.

We spoke with Ruby about her journey as a music educator and what this recognition means to her.

1. How did you feel when you received the news that you had won?

"I feel very touched to have been nominated by my colleagues and considered an impactful teacher. Knowing that my teaching has inspired and influenced music students is a huge privilege."

2. What is a career highlight for you as a music teacher?

"Every time I work with students who are genuinely excited about making music, it’s a highlight. Watching their passion grow, their confidence develop, and their creativity flourish over time is one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching."

3. Tell us about a moment that you had to advocate for music learning.

"In the youth jazz space, I actively advocate for equal learning opportunities for musicians of all genders, ensuring that everyone has access to the rich educational and personal growth experiences that big band playing offers. Creating a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment allows all students to thrive and fully engage with their music education."

4. How do you think this professional development will enhance your teaching career?

"This opportunity will strengthen my ability to advocate for my students, equipping me with the language and confidence to ensure they receive the best possible learning experiences. It will also broaden my perspective and refine my teaching strategies, ultimately benefiting the students I work with."

5. What’s one piece of advice you have for other early-career music teachers out there?

"Your enthusiasm for music is one of your greatest teaching tools. If you bring energy, passion, and curiosity into your classroom, your students will feed off that excitement, making learning more engaging and rewarding for everyone involved."

Celebrating Ruby’s Dedication

Ruby’s passion for creating an inclusive, engaging, and inspiring music education experience is truly remarkable. Her advocacy for equality in jazz education and her commitment to student growth make her an outstanding educator and a well-deserving BBB Music Teacher Award Runner-Up.

A huge thank you to Ruby’s colleagues for recognizing her impact and nominating her for this award. We hope this acknowledgment encourages her to continue pushing boundaries in music education, empowering students, and inspiring fellow educators.