KtC students attend selective university summer program

Left: Ciku and Mason, back from their amazing trip! Right: Prof. Arnaud Ghillebaert, their instructor. Our viola students Mason Nguyen and Ciku Maina earned scholarships to attend the Summer String Intensive at the University of Oregon! Based on the quality of their auditions, both students spent a week immersed in private lessons, chamber music, masterclasses, […]

New speaker series supports college and career exploration

At Key to Change, we believe that every student deserves access to the resources, encouragement, and opportunities needed to pursue higher education and fulfilling careers, regardless of background or zip code. That’s why we’re proud to launch an exciting new college and career speaker series created specifically for our students and their families. Called Inspiring […]

Key to Change adds distinguished viola faculty

Key to Change is delighted to announce that Seattle Symphony violist Mara Gearman is joining our teaching staff, expanding our capacity to provide world-class music instruction to an ever-growing group of students.  While the viola and violin share many similarities, the viola (pronounced “vee-oh-la”)  is a unique instrument that deserves specialized instruction as students progress. […]

An Unforgettable Visit from Hilary Hahn

Hilary Hahn (center) surrounded by students, alumni, and staff following her monumental visit to Key to Change Last Friday, something extraordinary happened at our Renton studio: Hilary Hahn, arguably the world’s greatest violinist, visited Key to Change to lead a masterclass with our students. Hilary was eager to listen to students at the beginner and […]

Student Violinist Wins Competition and Concert Debut

Laila West (age 16) was selected to perform as a soloist with the University of Washington Philharmonia Campus Orchestra on May 31 at Meany Hall for the Performing Arts. Laila will perform the first movement of Vivaldi’s Violin Concerto in G minor. She was selected by two UW professors who listened to multiple students compete before awarding […]

Students perform for Vice President Kamala Harris

Eden Pawlos and Laila West, two violinists enrolled in our Young Artist Academy program performed solos before Vice President Kamala Harris spoke in front of a packed audience. Following the Vice President’s remarks, the students had an opportunity to meet her briefly. (Left) Eden Pawlos shakes hands with VP Kamala Harris, (center) Eden Pawlos, Dr. […]

Student Violinist Wins Award & Performance

Eden Pawlos wins concerto competition and will make debut with University of Washington Campus Philharmonia Yesterday, Eden Pawlos, a student violinist at Key to Change won the annual Key to Change concerto competition, winning first place. As a result of winning, Eden will make her debut as a guest soloist with the University of Washington’s […]