We were lucky to catch up with Leo Testoni recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Leo , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
As a professional guitarist, I believe music chose me, not the other way around. I’ve been playing guitar since I was 11 years old, and by the time I turned 16, I was already working as a professional musician. It’s been 20 years now, and I’ve never done anything outside of music—it’s been my entire life.
Initially, the purpose was crystal clear: pure passion for music. My eyes lit up, and my mind wandered with dreams of living as a guitarist. But when music becomes your job, your guitar stops being a hobby. Any musician worth their salt knows you must keep studying and evolving your entire life. The routine and challenges become very real, and the instrument starts to feel like an obligation. It’s no longer about learning a song you love—it’s about being required to master 20 or 30 songs overnight to deliver a gig. Responsibility starts to take over that initial spark of passion.
What I’ve realized over time is that the greatest musicians manage to keep a sense of playfulness alive. The same joy they had at the beginning when they were just having fun is still there—even in the midst of chaos. Finding that balance is tough because responsibilities and obligations can drown out the fun. But keeping that original fire alive is essential, and every artist has their own way of doing it.
For me, I’ve developed a few strategies to stay connected to my purpose. One of my go-to methods is watching live performances—usually on DVD or Blu-ray—from artists who reignite that spark in me, the same one that inspired me to pick up the guitar in the first place. Another way is watching interviews with my idols, which instantly reconnects me with my passion.
And then there’s something a bit risky but effective: getting new gear—like guitars, amps, or pedals. Sure, there’s the thrill of having a shiny new toy, but more than that, it’s about discovering how it works, its sound, and how it feels to play. There’s a rush of excitement and curiosity, like being a kid or a teenager again. It’s a playful process that reminds me why I fell in love with music in the first place.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m Leo Testoni—a musician, guitarist, and educator who has dedicated my life to music. I started playing guitar at 11 years old in São Paulo, Brazil, and by 16, I was already performing professionally. Since then, music has been my constant companion and career, guiding me through incredible experiences across South America, Europe, and the United States.
Currently, I’m focused on blending my performance and production work with my passion for education. My wife and I have a project called Duet Paty & Leo, where we perform a mix of Brazilian, pop, and jazz music. It’s been amazing to share this journey with her, from recording with renowned musicians like Danny Gottlieb to performing at iconic events like the Umbria Jazz Festival.
What excites me most about my work is its variety and depth. One day, I’m on stage, pouring my heart into a live performance. The next, I’m in my home studio, experimenting with sounds, recording albums, or even producing jingles and soundtracks. I also love helping others discover the joy of music through teaching, whether it’s guiding students to unlock their potential or inspiring them with stories from my own musical path.
Right now, I’m diving deeper into live performances and recording projects. We’re always working on new material and exploring fresh ways to connect with audiences—whether through in-person gigs, online performances, or even collaborations with other artists.
If you’d like to dive into my music, I invite you to listen to my solo album Arranged & Spontaneous Sessions or Da Nossa Terra by Duet Paty & Leo. And stay tuned, because we’re always working on new material, with exciting releases coming your way soon!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, I’d say the three qualities or areas of knowledge that had the most impact on my journey were:
1.A strong foundation in music education. A solid understanding of music theory, technique, and history gave me the tools to grow as a performer and producer. Music education is something I deeply value, and it should always go hand-in-hand with performance. Whether on stage or in the studio, the knowledge you gain from studying music amplifies everything you do.
2.Adaptability and continuous learning. These days, being a musician isn’t just about mastering your instrument. Knowing a second language, understanding technology, and even learning about marketing have become essential. For example, knowing how to produce, record, and promote my music has opened doors I wouldn’t have had otherwise.
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.Connection and communication. Music is about relationships—collaborating with other artists, engaging with an audience, or sharing knowledge with students. Communicating clearly, listening deeply, and connecting authentically have been just as important as the notes I play.
My advice for those early in their journey is to never stop learning. Build your skills on your instrument, but stay curious about everything else that makes music a career. Dive into music education, learn how to use recording and production tools, and take the time to understand the business side of things. Finally, don’t underestimate the power of communication—whether in a second language or through the universal language of music, your ability to connect will carry you far.
Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
One of the biggest challenges I face is navigating an international music career. Moving from Brazil to the U.S. to pursue my master’s degree was a life-changing experience, and now, living in Los Angeles, I’ve been fortunate to perform regularly and travel for gigs. However, balancing an international career comes with unique hurdles.
Traveling as a musician has become increasingly difficult. Navigating visa processes, ensuring all the necessary documentation is in order, and dealing with airlines that often don’t prioritize the care of instruments can be incredibly stressful. Flying with a guitar, for instance, means constantly worrying about whether it will make it safely to the destination. These logistical challenges can take a toll, but they’re part of the reality of being a professional musician today.
Still, I remind myself why I chose this path—the music, the connections, and the joy of sharing my work with audiences worldwide. Despite the challenges, I’m committed to making it all work and growing as an artist.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.leotestoni.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leo.testoni/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leo.testonigtr
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/leotestoni
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