VIOLIN & VIOLA STUDIO

Make a positive transformation as a musician & student

Emeraude
Lynn and Alena holding their violins
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IS THIS YOU?

Are you sick and tired of your tone sounding so scratchy and you can’t stand it?

Are you nervous or shy to play solo in front of others? 

Are you frustrated with your playing and don’t know how to fix it? 

Are you overwhelmed when you practice alone? 

Are you ready to make a positive transformation as a musician and student? 

If the answer is yes to any of these questions, read on!

Our string studio provides middle and high school students in South King County with the keys to make amazing, noticeable progress that both they, and their parents can be proud of. We have a proven track record of helping students become more confident, self-reliant musicians, who play with excellent technique and a beautiful tone that is enjoyable to watch and listen to. We set our students up to become highly efficient, technically solid, and musically expressive young musicians. 

Our students learn various styles of music in a diverse, supportive, and healthy environment. Each student is taught by a renowned university professor and professional violinist with a small supportive team of teachers, who have a successful track record of engaging students through a curriculum that allows them to make fast, incredible progress in weeks!

APPLICATION DEADLINE - WINTER TRIMESTER: JANUARY 4

Our students gain self confidence and learn how to become responsible, caring musicians, who are positive role models in their schools and respective communities.

We know that many students may have been playing their instrument for years, whether in a school orchestra or other ensemble and may not fully understand how to play with proper technique or posture. This can be discouraging and frustrating in the development of a student learning the instrument, especially if ever asked to play a solo! Let Key to Change help you develop correct technique and be more confident on stage! 

LESSONS HELPED MY DAUGHTER

Listen to this parent discuss how Key to Change has helped his daughter become a more confident, responsible student and you will see why our student retention rate is just about 90% with the average student staying in our program for four years!

LESSON OPTIONS

GROUP LESSONS

Group lessons are our most popular lesson option. They’re great for students who want to make progress in a fun, collaborative environment alongside peers who share their love for music. Whether you’re a beginner or you’ve been playing your instrument for a while, we have a group class that’s right for you.

Key to Change offers six different group classes, each of which is designed for students of a different skill level. Placement in each group is based on musical ability and Key to Change staff recommendation.

  • Each group has up to 12 students per class.
  • All group lessons are 30–60 minutes long, depending on the group.
  • All groups meet either once or twice a week between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.
  • Each group is offered during three different “trimesters.” Each trimester is four months long. Trimesters begin in September, January, and May.
  • Group classes that meet twice per week receive approximately 28 lessons per trimester. Group classes that meet once per week receive approximately 14 lessons per trimester.
  • Students who are unable to attend the recommended group class should consider private lessons, or registering for a different trimester.

New Beginners

$ 500 /Trimester ($17.85 per lesson)
  • 30-minute class, meets twice a week
  • This class is for students who are new to playing the violin or viola. It’s ideal for those who want to learn the mechanics of the instrument and/or are interested in participating in their school orchestra program.

“For Fun”

$ 350 /Trimester ($17.85 per lesson)
  • 60-minute class, meets once per week
  • This class is for students who have been playing the violin or viola for a minimum of one year, who enjoy playing an instrument, but are busy with other activities that prevent them from practicing regularly. Students who take this class will play various styles of music and will learn music theory and basic musicianship.

Allegro

$ 500 /Trimester ($17.85 per lesson)
  • 30-minute class, meets twice per week
  • This class is for students who have been playing for a minimum of one year, who can play a one octave D major scale and are comfortable using all four fingers on the fingerboard. Students work in String Basics Book 1, Suzuki Book 1 and learn short violin pieces. New students must complete an assessment session before being admitted to this class.

Andante

$ 350 /Trimester ($25 per lesson)
  • 60-minute class, meets once per week
  • This class is for students who are new to Key to Change, who have been playing the violin or viola for a minimum of two years. Students will learn a variety of techniques and pieces. Students who are interested in advancing into another group class have the option of requesting an assessment one month before the new trimester begins.

Joseph White

$ 1,000 /Trimester ($35.70 per lesson)
  • 60-minute class, meets twice per week
  • This class is for students who have been playing for a minimum of two years and who can play a minimum of five major or minor scales. Students work in String Basics books 2 and 3, learn technique, and solo/ensemble repertoire that is performed with piano. Students new to Key to Change must complete an assessment session before being admitted to this class.

Saint-Georges

$ 1,000 /Trimester ($35.70 per lesson)
  • 60-minute class, meets twice per week
  • This class is for students who have been playing for a minimum of three years. Students work in String Basics Book 3, Tucker-Rhoda technique book and learn other technical studies. This class is perfect for students who are interested in learning shifting, vibrato, more advanced techniques, solo/ensemble repertoire, and performing in outreach concerts and events.

PRIVATE LESSONS – POPULAR PACKAGE!

Excellent for students who want individualized attention to learn at their own pace in a supportive, fun and engaging environment!

Cost: $1,500/trimester


Dr. Morris coaching a student (top) before a performance and (bottom) him working with a younger student during a private lesson.

Take personalized 60 minute music lessons with Dr. Morris and learn your instrument in a private, personalized environment where you can learn at your own pace and not feel pressured in an atmosphere that can feel intimidating. Make great progress, gain confidence, and feel good about your playing on stage!

In addition to weekly lessons, students also attend 7 studio classes each trimester with other private lesson students where they play and receive feedback, furthering their musical development. Studio classes are mandatory for all private lesson students and may be observed by group lesson students. Students learn two and three octave scales, etudes, double stops, concertos, sonatas and other solo pieces for violin or viola. 

 

Students who take private lessons tend to make faster, more noticeable progress than those who take group lessons. 

 

Our private students’ wonderful accomplishments include:

– Performing as a soloist with regional orchestras, including Northwest Symphony Orchestra and Tacoma Community College Chamber Orchestra 

– Performing on Unmute The Voices video series (watch Eden and Amariah perform)

– Opening for the Seattle Symphony (watch Jasmine, Alia and Amariah’s opening performances)

– Performing on Classical KING FM 98.1’s Northwest Focus LIVE 

– Advancing to the Washington State All-State Contest 

– Becoming concertmasters (first chairs) of their school orchestras or local youth symphonies

– Winning first place in our annual Solo String Festival

– Attending the Peabody Conservatory of Music at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Washington

Frequently asked questions and information on our studio policy can be found in the tabs below.

PRIVATE & GROUP “COMBO”

Cost: $1,750/trimester

       

Violin and viola students have the option of taking a combination of individual and group lessons. Students take group lessons (twice per week) and take a bi-weekly private lesson. This allows students to receive one-on-one attention occasionally, while enjoying the group lesson atmosphere and camaraderie. Students are able to apply what they’ve learned in their private lessons directly in a group lesson environment. 

Frequently asked questions and information on our studio policy can be found in the tabs below.

 

Young Artist Academy

Offered in partnership with the Seattle Symphony, our Young Artist Academy (YAA) for South King County middle and high school students who play the violin or viola. YAA provides a safe space for students who are motivated to learn their instrument at a high level. It requires a one-year commitment and runs from the fall through the summer trimesters. YAA students participate in 28 private lessons as well as Studio classes and masterclasses with guest artists.

As a YAA student, you’ll become a stronger musician and student by gaining skills that are important not only in music but also in other areas of your life and study. Our academically and musically rich curriculum is designed to help you become a more responsible student as well as an active, caring citizen. All of this will make your college applications more competitive!

Through your lessons and practice, you’ll become more disciplined and confident as you learn to analyze music, solve problems and think critically. Plus, your ability to memorize music will improve dramatically and you’ll learn to collaborate with other musicians by working with an accompanist.

YOUNG ARTIST ACADEMY

$ 2,400 /Trimester
  • ($85.71 per lesson)

YAA Benefits

  • An instrument to use from the Key to Change instrument library. (Note: students are responsible for maintenance costs.)
  • Individual music instruction with Dr. Morris twice a week, including one lesson with our studio pianist. Lessons are tailored specifically to students’ personal and musical interests.
  • Studio classes taught by Dr. Quinton Morris and Noah Geller (concertmaster of the Seattle Symphony).
  • Masterclasses with renowned professional musicians, professors, and members of the Seattle Symphony.
  • Special Seattle Symphony events and activities, including performance opportunities, an open rehearsal, a Career in the Arts workshop, and a meet-and-greet with Symphony musicians and staff at Benaroya Hall.
  • Competition in the concerto competition in our Solo String Festival, where one student winner is selected to make their professional debut as a soloist with the Seattle Symphony during their Community Concerts series.
  • An exclusive concert performance for YAA participants only.
  • Free tickets to Seattle Symphony’s Masterworks series concerts (subject to availability).
  • Opportunities to perform as a soloist with local community orchestras.
  • Access to UNCF’s Portfolio Project, a college preparatory program for high school students.

Expectations for YAA Students

  • Commit to practicing to 1–1.5 hours per day four days a week, and 2–3 hours per day on the weekends.
  • Complete all assignments.
  • Do not miss more than four lessons per trimester.
  • Attend all major concerts and events for Academy students and Studio students. (If a student is hesitant about participating in Academy events, they should enroll in private or group lessons.)
  • Maintain a 3.0 grade point average (must submit report card each trimester)
  • Commit to one full year (three trimesters).

Apply

To apply, students submit a video recording via YouTube of themselves playing a scale (2 or 3 octaves), and a piece of the student’s choice, plus a 250- to 500-word personal essay describing how you believe you’d benefit from being an academy student. Both merit-based and need-based scholarships are available for qualified students

GENERAL FAQ'S

What is the age range of students at Key to Change?

Our studio serves middle and high school students ages 12-18. We will accept students who are age 11 as long as they are in 6th grade. Many of our students enroll in middle school and continue until they have graduated from high school.

What areas does Key to Change serve?

Key to Change serves students in all of South King County: Auburn, Burien, Covington, Enumclaw, Federal Way, Kent, Maple Valley, Muckleshoot Reserve, Normandy Park, Renton, Seatac, Skyway, White Center 

When are lessons offered?

Lessons are offered Monday through Thursday between the hours of 2pm-8pm. We do not provide lessons on the weekends, except for some rehearsals that are scheduled in advance

Where are lessons held?

All lessons are held at our string studio, which is located inside Hope Church NW. Our address is 200 SW Langston Road, Renton, WA 98057. 

Does Key to Change offer lessons other than violin?

We offer viola lessons as well. Students may sign up for private lessons or group lessons with other violinists. We do not teach any other instruments.

What is the difference between private and group lessons?

Private lessons are one-on-one tutorials with an instructor, while group classes are between six and fifteen students working with one instructor. Private lessons allow for the instructor to gauge progress and set a pace that meets the individual student’s skills, abilities, and interests. Group lessons are more peer centered with students learning in a community environment. Group lessons are our most popular classes in our string studio. Students may also do a combination of group and individual lessons.

Does Key to Change offer scholarships?

Yes, Key to Change offers scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need. Students may apply for a need-based scholarship here. As part of the application process, a 1040 Tax Form for the current year must be submitted as well as the student's most recent report card, demonstrating a 2.5 GPA or higher.

We also provide a small number of merit-based scholarships for talented students who demonstrate hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude in their lessons, that is all based on teacher recommendation. Key to Change does not solicit applications for merit-based scholarships. 

What are the expectations of a student receiving a need-based scholarship?

Expectations of scholarship recipients: 

- Must attend all weekly lessons, master classes, outreach and studio performances 

- Must prepare weekly assignments from instructor 

- Maintain a 2.5 grade point average 

- Must exemplify a positive and healthy attitude and work ethic 

- Must commit to the three trimesters (one year) of lessons

Recipients in danger of losing their scholarships due to the following:

- Lack of preparation in personal practice 

- Excessive tardiness or more than 4 unexcused absences from lessons

- Poor or disruptive attitude.

- Lack of participation in fundraising, outreach or studio performances.

- Not maintaining a 2.5 grade point average (must provide most recent grades  from school at the beginning of each trimester - August, December, and April)

- Late payments on payment plan or parents/guardians not communicating regarding an extension

How can I apply for a scholarship?

Fill out all sections of the scholarship form and include the most recent 1090 Tax Form and the student’s most recent grades, which include the cumulative GPA, as the information gathered through this form will allow us to assess each student’s financial needs and award financial aid and scholarships accordingly. Please note: no scholarship applications will be considered without completing a student application form. 

What is Key to Change's lesson make up policy?

Due to our tight lesson schedule, lessons missed by the student for any reason are not able to be rescheduled. If the instructor cancels lessons, missed lessons will be rescheduled at some point in the trimester to assure each student receives their 14 full weeks of lessons (28 lessons for group and Young Artist Academy students, 14 lessons for private students). Please review our Studio Policy for additional information.

What if I miss my lesson?

We ask that you are mindful of your lesson commitment and do your best not to schedule any conflicting appointments. If you are unable to attend a lesson, please let the instructor know by email ([email protected]) at least one week beforehand. In the case of an emergency or last-minute cancellation, call or text our office at (425) 998-6058. Please note that more than four unexcused absences in a trimester will result in termination of lessons for those on scholarship.

When is tuition due?

Tuition is due on the first Friday at the beginning of each trimester. Families may set up a tuition payment plan, where they may make weekly, biweekly or monthly payments. Students who receive a scholarship are expected to commit to an entire year of lessons, and may set up a tuition payment plan if they are unable to pay the entire trimester’s tuition at once. Please review our Studio Policy for more information.

What if I decide to stop taking lessons?

Key to Change will only reimburse families 100% of the tuition paid if the student decides to stop taking lessons prior to the end of the first week of lessons. No refunds will be issued after the first week of lessons. Families are responsible for paying the remaining balance of the trimester, even if they discontinue attending class. 

Do I need to own my own instrument?

If you do not have access to an instrument, you are welcome to rent an instrument from our violin library for $30.00 per month.

What other fees should I expect to pay?

Group lesson students' books and a bow buddy fees are included in the cost of tuition. There may be other expenses that arise depending on the individual need of the student and will be discussed directly with the parent on a case by case basis. Private lesson students are responsible for purchasing books and music for their lessons. The costs can range from $20 - 100 per year. 

How many lessons are in a trimester?

There are approximately 14 weeks in a trimester and the following chart outlines how many lessons according to the type of lessons offered: 

NEW: Combo of Group & Private Lessons

28 group lessons + 7 private lessons

Group Lessons for 60 or 30 minutes 

28 lessons

NEW: Young Artist Academy

28 lessons + 1 studio class + 6 master classes

Private Lessons 

14 lessons + 7 studio classes 

What are studio classes and masterclasses?

Studio classes are mandatory for all private lesson students. There are approximately 7 studio classes per trimester that last one and a half hours. They are open for observation to all other students and provide a great opportunity for beginner students to deepen their learning and to see what is possible. Some of these classes feature guest artists as a part of our masterclass series.

End of Trimester Concerts

Students are required to perform at the end of trimester concerts. These concerts will be held in Renton on: December 17, 2022 (end of fall trimester concert), April 14-16, 2023 (end of winter trimester) and August 19, 2023(end of spring/summer trimester). All students who receive a scholarship are required to participate in the End of Trimester Concerts. 

Student Placement in Group Classes

Students who enroll in group classes are placed in the appropriate course, which is based on skill level, not age. Some group classes have both middle and high school students in them, although most classes tend to have students in the same grades and/or age range. The instructor reserves the right to move students into other group classes who either advance or fall behind in course content. The goal is to properly place students in the appropriate class so they may make continued progress in an organic and musically fun way. 

Seattle Symphony Partnership

Students enrolled in our string studio will have opportunities to engage in activities for free, sponsored by the Seattle Symphony. These activities include observing Young Artist Academy students perform in masterclasses, receiving tickets to Seattle Symphony performances, attending an open dress rehearsal and various workshops. Students may only participate in the concerto competition or perform in the Pre-Concert Recital if they are Young Artist Academy students. 

What Can You Expect From Key to Change?

- We provide high-quality music instruction catered to each student

- We treat all students with care and respect

- We will be prepared and on-time for all scheduled lessons, classes, and performances

- We will return all phone calls and emails in a timely and professional manner

- We will always listen when you have a concern and do our best to resolve the issue

 

Expectations of Students & Parents

- Must have a computer or smartphone with camera

- Must have a strong internet connection and modem

- Be prepared and on-time for all scheduled lessons, classes, and performances

- Be respectful of all students, teachers, and guest artists

- Practice your repertoire outside of lessons and complete practice assignments by the scheduled due dates

- Do your best not to miss any lessons or performances–if you must miss class, please notify us by phone or email at least one week in advance

- Check your email regularly during the session for announcements regarding recital dates, lesson scheduling, snow-day closings, and other lesson details

- Let us know if you see a way we can improve our services–we will always strive to be our best!

 

Cancellations or Missed Lessons

Cancellations by Instructor:

- If we cancel for any reason, we will make up your missed lesson or credit the cost of that lesson back to you.

- By default, we do not have lessons on national holidays unless otherwise stated.

- Cancellation of lessons due to unsafe weather conditions will be up to the discretion of the instructor.


Cancellations by Student/Parent:

- Teachers are not required to make up a lesson missed by the student for any reason.

- If you are unable to attend a lesson, please let us know by phone or email at least one week beforehand.

- More than four unexcused absences in a session will result in termination of lessons.

 

Liability Waiver

- Key to Change is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged belongings.

- We work hard to create safe spaces for lessons and performances. In the event that something bad happens, we promise to provide support to our students to the best of our ability.

 

Child Protection Policy

In order to create and maintain a safe, positive learning environment for all children, we are committed to putting these measures in place:

- During all private music lessons, the instructor will teach in a room with the door open.

- Parents are always welcome to stay in a waiting area within earshot of a private lesson. If they find it necessary, a parent may check the open door at any time without disturbing the lesson.

- Bullying or fighting between students will not be tolerated.

 

Additional Fees

We strive to keep our costs at a minimum, however, over the course of the session students may need to spend additional money on the following tools and accessories:

- Sheet music or music books

- Strings

- Recital clothing

- Metronome

- Notebook

- Pencils

 

Electronic Communication Policy

Important announcements will be communicated with students and parents via email. It is expected that students and parents will check their email regularly for updates regarding recital dates and details, snow-day closings, schedule changes, and other lesson details. In the case of an emergency or last-minute schedule change, students and parents may be notified by phone.

Parents and students are encouraged to contact the instructor by phone, email, or in person if they have any questions or concerns with lessons or scheduling.

 

Scholarship Policy

Key to Change is pleased to offer scholarships to deserving students, with the expectation that scholarship recipients will demonstrate hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude in their lessons. Failure to meet these expectations will result in loss of scholarship.

Scholarship recipients are expected to complete all practice assignments, attend all lessons, and serve as positive role models for other students. More than three unexcused absences in a semester will result in loss of scholarship. Students must maintain at least a 2.5 GPA in order to keep their scholarship.

TUITION

The following tuition reflects the prices for students living and attending school in South King County. Unsure if you live and attend school in South King County? – emails us at [email protected].

Families are required to make an initial payment toward tuition before the first lesson. Failure to pay by the third lesson will result in termination of lessons. Apply by January 4? Try out lessons for two weeks before payment is required. To pay by card please click here. Checks should be made payable to The Key to Change and can be mailed to PO Box 16787, Seattle WA 98116.

The Key to Change is dedicated to providing scholarship assistance to students who have expressed a need due to their family’s financial situation. Scholarships that are given to students are funded through generous support from our donors, board and community supporters. To apply for a scholarship, click on the button below.

Refunds: Key to Change will only reimburse families 100% of the tuition paid if the student decides to stop taking lessons prior to the end of the first week of lessons (the second week of lesson if you apply by January 4!) . No refunds will be issued after the first week of lessons. Families are responsible for paying the remaining balance of the trimester, even if the student discontinues lessons. 

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