This summer, Key to Change is launching Symphony South, a brand-new orchestra program for middle and high school string students in the Federal Way Public Schools.
Designed to expand access to high-quality music education in South King County, Symphony South is open to students who play a string instrument and both live in and attend school in the Federal Way Public Schools. The program offers a rare opportunity for students to grow musically, academically, and socially.
Created to expand access to high-quality music education in South King County, Symphony South is open to middle and high school students who play a string instrument and live in and attend school in the Federal Way Public Schools. Symphony South offers a rare opportunity for students to grow musically, academically, and socially. Student participants will coach with a professional conductor, participate in daily orchestra rehearsals, receive small group and private lessons, attend masterclasses with guest artists, engage in academic enrichment activities, and perform in community outreach concerts.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring this summer program to Federal Way,” said Dr. Quinton Morris, executive director and founder of Key to Change. “Our goal is to nurture the potential of every student, especially those who may not have access to private lessons or high-level music opportunities. This program will give young string players a chance to grow their skills, build confidence, and experience the joy of making music together.”
Symphony South is an extension of Key to Change’s already budding string studio, which provides middle and high school students with group and private lesson instruction. “We’re incredibly excited to bring this summer program to Federal Way,” said Dr. Quinton Morris, founder and executive director of Key to Change. “Our goal is to nurture the potential of every student, especially those who may not have access to private lessons or high-level music opportunities. This program will give young string players a chance to grow their skills, build confidence, and experience the joy of making music together.”
“Symphony South will be a game-changer for our students’ growth and confidence,” said Dr. Erika Rudnicki, Executive Director Teaching and Learning in Federal Way Public Schools. “We’re grateful that Key to Change’s mission will directly benefit the Federal Way community, giving more students a chance to thrive.”
Key to Change serves middle and high school students from across South King County — primarily students of color from Renton, Kent, Auburn, White Center, Rainier Beach, Des Moines, and Federal Way. Since 2017, the organization has taught hundreds of students and maintains a 91% retention rate. Thanks to essential support from donors, Key to Change proudly provides scholarship assistance to over 90% of its students, ensuring that high-quality violin and viola instruction is accessible to all who wish to learn.
Student participants have made their professional debuts with local symphony orchestras, including the Federal Way Symphony Orchestra, Northwest Symphony Orchestra, and the Seattle Symphony. They’ve also performed for First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris. Recent alumni have gone on to study at institutions such as the University of Washington, Seattle University, Johns Hopkins University, Peabody Conservatory of Music, Cleveland Institute of Music, Willamette University, and Louisiana State University.
Symphony South will run June 30 – July 24, 2025. It will be held at Thomas Jefferson High School in Federal Way. Learn more about Symphony South here.
