Hey Friend,

Ever noticed how kids will happily tackle a tricky challenge in a video game—dying, retrying, and leveling up—without an ounce of frustration?

Imagine if learning a new piece felt the same way!

Here’s a quick trick: Turn your lessons into "levels" just like a game. 🎮

Instead of presenting everything at once (which can feel overwhelming), break it into clear, bite-sized goals:

🟢 Level 1 – Get the notes right
🟡 Level 2 – Add articulation
🔵 Level 3 – Play with dynamics
🔴 Level 4 – Memorise it!

For younger students, go even smaller:

🎯 Level 1 – Nail the bow hold
🎯 Level 2 – Violin seat + bow hold together
🎯 Level 3 – Play the rhythm on an open string
🎯 Level 4 – Add a left-hand harmonic

Each time they ‘level up,’ there’s a mini celebration—whether that’s a silly sound effect, a happy dance or just a big high-five.

This Visible Learning approach (from John Hattie’s research) shows that when students can see their progress clearly, they feel more in control, engaged, and motivated. And when learning feels like a game? Suddenly, practice isn’t a chore—it’s a challenge they’re excited to beat!

This is just one of the playful techniques I love using—if you like this, you’ll love what’s inside the Stringosaurus Hub. Yayyyy

Let me know if you try it! I’d love to hear how your students respond.

Happy teaching,
Laura 🎻