Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating the world of music education can raise many questions, and we’re here to provide the clarity you need. Our Frequently Asked Questions section is a carefully curated resource designed to address the most common inquiries we receive. From details about our programs and classes to information on registration, scheduling, and studio policies, we’ve got you covered.
Questions & Answers
What is the age range of students at Key to Change?
What areas does Key to Change serve?
Key to Change serves students in all of South King County, including Auburn, Black Diamond, Burien, Covington, Des Moines, Federal Way, Enumclaw, Kent, Maple Valley, Muckleshoot Reserve, Normandy Park, Rainier Beach, Renton, SeaTac, Skyway, Tukwila, and White Center.
We also welcome students from Seattle based on a market-rate pricing structure. See Tuition section for details.
When are lessons offered?
Lessons are offered Monday through Thursday from 2-8 p.m. 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.
Do I have to have been playing for a certain amount of time before signing up for this program?
No, students with no playing experience are welcome to register for lessons.
What is the difference between private and group lessons?
Private lessons are one-on-one tutorials with an instructor, while group classes are 6–15 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.
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 per month.
What other fees should I expect to pay?
For students in group lessons, books and other supply fees are included in the cost of tuition. Other expenses may arise depending on the individual need of the student and will be discussed directly with the parent on a case-by-case basis.
For students in private lessons, students are responsible for purchasing books and music for their lessons. Costs can range from $20–$100 per trimester.
How many lessons are in a trimester?
There are approximately 14 weeks in a trimester. The chart below outlines the number of lessons by type of lesson:
Group Lessons | 28 lessons (60 or 30 minutes, depending on level) |
Private Lessons | 14 lessons + 7 studio classes |
Group + Private Lessons | 28 group lessons + 7 private lessons |
Young Artist Academy | 28 lessons + approximately 7 studio classes and 4 masterclasses with guest artists |
What are Studio classes and masterclasses?
Studio classes are mandatory for all private lesson and Young Artist Academy students. There are approximately 7 studio classes per trimester that each last one and a half hours. Additionally, our masterclasses feature professional musicians, who teach in a guest capacity providing wonderful opportunities for students to receive performance experience and feedback.
Both our Studio classes and masterclasses 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.
End-of-Trimester Concerts
Students are required to perform at all end-of-trimester concerts. These concerts will be held at our Studio on Saturday, December 16, 2023 (fall), June 22, 2024 (spring), and August 17, 2024 (summer). All concerts begin promptly at noon.
Both our Studio classes and masterclasses 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.
