About Us
Changing Lives Through Music Since 1966
Music Works Northwest is a nonprofit community music school dedicated to making high‑quality music education accessible to every learner.
OUR STORY
A Legacy of Musical Learning
Music Works Northwest began in 1966 as the Seattle Imperials Drum & Bugle Corps, a small but passionate community of musicians dedicated to youth development through music. Over the decades, that spirit of accessibility, mentorship, and artistic excellence grew into the nonprofit community music school we are today.
Now serving thousands of King County residents, Music Works Northwest provides high‑quality private lessons, ensembles, summer camps, early childhood programs, music therapy, community programs, and outreach across Bellevue, Redmond, Seattle, Kirkland, Renton, and the greater Eastside. We believe music has the power to transform lives — building confidence, creativity, discipline, and connection.
With the support of donors and partners, we expand access through tuition assistance, instrument loans, school partnerships, and free community programs so cost is never a barrier. Our distinguished faculty guide learners of all ages and abilities, helping students earn WMEA recognition, youth symphony placements, acceptances to top music schools, and lifelong joy in music.
WHAT DRIVES US
our Mission
Our mission guides our role as a trusted music school for families across Bellevue, Redmond, Seattle, Kirkland, Renton, and the greater Eastside:
Access: Making music education available to everyone through tuition assistance, instrument loans, school partnerships, and community programs.
Excellence: Delivering high-quality instruction across 20+ instruments and voice, early childhood music, summer camps, and music therapy.
Community: Building meaningful connection through ensembles, outreach programs, public performances, and partnerships that strengthen the Eastside arts ecosystem.
Impact: Transforming lives through creativity, discipline, confidence, and the lifelong joy of making music.
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EXPERIENCED MUSIC EDUCATORS
Our Faculty
Our faculty are professional musicians, educators, and therapists who bring expertise and passion to every lesson. More than 65% hold degrees from top institutions like Juilliard, Eastman, Berklee, University of North Texas, University of Michigan, USC Thornton, UW and Boston Conservatory.
What You'll Find in Our Faculty
Expert instructors: Specialists across piano, strings, brass, woodwinds, percussion, voice, electronic music, early childhood learning, and music therapy.
Supportive mentors: Teachers who meet students where they are and help them grow with individualized guidance.
Diverse artists: Professional ackgrounds in classical, jazz, pop, contemporary styles, composition, and performance.
LEADERSHIP EXPERTISE
Board of Directors
Music Works Northwest is guided by a volunteer Board of Directors who ensure the organization’s mission, sustainability, and long‑term impact.
Community leaders: Advocates for arts education and nonprofit growth across the Pacific Northwest.
Strategic oversight: Providing governance, fundraising leadership, and vision for future expansion.
Commitment to access: Supporting tuition assistance, instrument loan programs, and outreach that keeps music education available to all.
ADMINISTRATION
Our Staff
Our staff keep Music Works Northwest running smoothly and ensure every family feels supported from enrollment to performance.
Administrative support: Assisting parents and students with registration, scheduling, and program details.
Community engagement: Coordinating outreach, events, and donor support across the Eastside.
Student services: Providing guidance and communication that help learners thrive throughout their musical journey.
Learn more about the staff who support our programs, students, and community every day.
MUSICAL LEGACIES
Our Alumni
Over the past 60 years, thousands of students, educators, and performers have nurtured a lifelong love of music through Music Works Northwest’s programs. Our alumni include professional performers, educators, composers, and music industry leaders who began their musical journey right here in our community.
Their achievements reflect the strength of our programs, the dedication of our faculty, and the impact of accessible, high‑quality music education.
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JOIN OUR COMMUNITY
Connect with Music Works Northwest
Stay connected with our team and the latest opportunities in music education.