What student doesn’t love the idea of “leveling up”? This is the same thing they try to do all day long in their video games. Levels are a familiar concept, and students naturally understand it takes a little work and time to “level up”, but the reward and the journey is always worth it. Students enjoy being challenged in ways that are achievable and can be measured. And when students know they will be rewarded for completing each challenge, it makes it even more fun. Students LOVE stickers, certificates, ribbons, medals, wristbands, and trophies! It doesn’t take a lot to get a student excited.

The feeling of accomplishment one gets after completing a task is enjoyable and memorable! Because Level Up is broken into many SMALL, achievable tasks, it makes completing them manageable. When the student gets a taste of what it feels like to complete that first task, it will be natural for them to want to complete the next task even more. Because the Level Up tasks (known as challenges and songs) are clearly defined and measurable, it gives students a clear sense of direction which is motivating in and of itself. When students see their first sticker go onto that sticker chart with 99 left to go, there is a real intrinsic sense of both accomplishment and inspiration there! This is why programs like the martial arts Black Belt system work so well.

Because students are working harder to accomplish those tasks, they are progressing and growing faster as musicians. And when students are progressing faster, they can SEE their progress more easily, and then they are motivated to want to progress even more. It’s the type of cycle you want your student to be in, as opposed to the cycle where they aren’t practicing or seeing progress which leads to more lack of interest in practicing and eventually quitting.

When you have a taste of success and can see a plan laid out clearly for your future advancement, it’s hard to stop! Greater interest in achievement leads to more practicing which leads to more progress which leads to greater interest and enjoyment in lessons and music. This is the secret to retaining students and growing your reputation in the community! Can you imagine how much your word of mouth referrals would increase if your students progressed even 10% faster than the general population? Can you imagine how much bigger your studio would be (and how long your waiting list would be) if all your students stayed in lessons even a few years longer than average?