Reflecting on an Incredible Year, and Looking Ahead
January is a natural moment to pause, reflect, and realign. As we step into a new year, we’re carrying forward everything 2025 taught us about consistency, community, and the power of music education done with intention.
Thank you for being part of a school that values depth over speed, growth over comparison, and meaningful experiences over shortcuts.

Looking Back: 2025 Highlights
2025 was a landmark year at Little School of Music.
From first notes to world-class stages, our students experienced music in ways that shaped not just their skills, but their confidence, identity, and sense of belonging.
Some of the moments we’re especially proud of include:
- 🎶 Carnegie Hall Performances by our RCM National Gold Medalists
- 🎸 Award-winning band performances and festivals
- 🎤 Hundreds of student performances across four seasonal recitals
- 🎓 Royal Conservatory of Music and Rockschool exams
- 🏫 School assemblies, outreach performances, and community partnerships
- 🎉 Our 20-Year Celebration & Legacy Artist Recital
Spotlight: Teacher of the Year – Justin Haase
As we begin a new year, we’re proud to recognize Justin Haase, our 2025 Teacher of the Year.
Justin exemplifies what it means to be an educator at Little School of Music: thoughtful, dedicated, patient, and deeply invested in student growth. His work reflects the values we hold highest: strong foundations, clear expectations, and genuine care for each student’s journey.
Thank you, Justin, for the impact you make every week in the studio and beyond.
Important Dates & What’s Coming Up
Winter Break Continues
📆 January 1 – January 12, 2026
We look forward to welcoming students back refreshed and ready to begin the next chapter.
NEW Music for Little Mozarts Classes
Now enrolling for February 2026
Intro Classes available for new families interested in our early childhood music program.
More updates and program details will be shared throughout the month.
Featured Article
What to Do During Music Breaks (Without Losing Momentum)
School breaks don’t have to mean stopping music, and they definitely don’t need to feel stressful.
In this article, Miss Mindy shares three healthy, realistic paths families can take during breaks, depending on their goals, energy, and schedule. Whether it’s diving deeper, staying gently engaged, or reframing what “practice” looks like, this guide helps families keep music meaningful without burnout.
You’ll learn:
- Why breaks are a powerful reset, not a setback
- How listening, exploring, and absorbing music counts as learning
- Simple ways to maintain consistency while still enjoying time off
Break time is a chance to reflect, reconnect, and prepare for what’s next, not press pause on progress.

The start of a new year often brings big questions:
Are we doing enough? Are we on the right path? Should we be moving faster?
2025 reminded us that progress in music, and in life, isn’t about rushing. It’s about showing up consistently, staying curious, and trusting the process even when growth feels slow.
Every student’s journey looks different, and that’s exactly how it should be. What matters is that they are learning how to learn, how to persist, and how to express themselves with confidence.
Thank you for choosing a school that values meaningful development over quick wins. I’m so excited for what 2026 will bring, and grateful to take this journey with you.
With appreciation,



