How We Measure Success in Let's Play Music

At Let’s Play Music, we know parents want to see their child thrive. You want to be sure the time, energy, and love you pour into lessons is really paying off.

But what does “success” actually look like in music education for young children?

Our founder, Shelle Soelberg, created Let’s Play Music to answer exactly that question. In this short video, she shares how our approach redefines success and why it matters for your child’s musical journey.

🎥 Watch the video:

More Than Perfect Notes

In traditional programs, “success” is often measured by grades, tests, or polished recitals. While those have their place, we believe true success is much bigger. We look at three key areas:

• Musical Understanding — Is your child hearing and thinking musically?

• Musical Expression — Are they experimenting, creating, or improvising?

• Musical Joy — Do they feel confident and excited to make music?

  
  

When these three things are present, your child is developing a real, lasting relationship with music — one that goes far beyond any one performance.

How We Assess at Let’s Play Music

Instead of one big, high-pressure “exam,” we weave gentle, playful assessments into every class. You might see:

• Quick listening games to develop inner hearing

• Group activities that let kids improvise or vary patterns

• Opportunities to share and reflect on what they’ve learned

  
  

This responsive approach lets our teachers adapt to each child’s needs and gives you, as a parent, a clear view of steady progress week after week.

What You’ll Notice as a Parent

Because we focus on thinking, creating, and feeling like musicians, you’ll often see your child:

• Composing their own little melodies long before you expected

• Confidently trying new ideas, even when they’re not “perfect” yet

• Developing deeper understanding rather than just rote skills

  
  

It’s common for parents to say, “I can’t believe my child is already doing this!”—and we love celebrating those moments with you.

Why This Matters

We know you want measurable growth. That’s why our teachers share what children are learning each semester and how it translates into musical thinking, creativity, and confidence. It’s a different kind of “success report,” but one that lasts long after the recital applause fades.

By redefining success this way, we’re not only teaching music. We’re helping to raise confident, joyful, creative kids who carry those skills into every part of life.

Join the Journey

Whether your child is just starting in Sound Beginnings or is preparing for advanced piano in Presto, you’ll see our unique approach in action: playful learning, responsive teaching, and a definition of success that celebrates the whole musician.

Because at Let’s Play Music, success isn’t just about the notes they play today — it’s about the music they’ll love for a lifetime.

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