About Us
About Music Works Northwest
Music Works Northwest is a nonprofit community music school, dedicated to changing lives through accessible music education and experiences.
OUR STORY
A Legacy of Musical Learning
Founded in 1966 as the Seattle Imperials Drum & Bugle Corps, Music Works Northwest is now a premier nonprofit serving thousands of King County residents.
As one of the most established music education nonprofits in the Pacific Northwest, we serve students seeking high-quality lessons, ensembles, summer camps, and community programs.
We believe that music is transformative, and we work with donors to expand access through tuition assistance, free events, and outreach to local schools.
Our distinguished faculty give students the guidance they need to excel. Music Works students consistently earn WMEA recognition, chairs in the Seattle and Bellevue Youth Symphonies, placements in top music schools, and professional careers in music performance and education.
WHAT DRIVES US
our Mission
Our mission drives 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 all, regardless of age, ability, or financial status.
Excellence: Providing high-quality instruction across more than 20 instruments and voice, early childhood music, summer camps, and music therapy
Community: Building connections through ensembles, outreach programs, and public performances
Impact: Transforming lives through creativity, discipline, and the power of 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. 65% hold degrees from top institutions like Juilliard, Eastman, Berklee, Stanford, Rice, University of North Texas, University of Michigan, USC Thornton, UW, Boston Conservatory, and more. Explore our faculty to find:
Experienced instructors: Specialists in piano, strings, brass, woodwinds, percussion, voice, electronic music, early childhood learning, and music therapy.
Supportive mentors: Patient teachers who meet students where they are and help them grow step-by-step.
Diverse backgrounds: Faculty with broad performance, composition, and therapy experience across classical, jazz, pop, and contemporary styles.
LEADERSHIP EXPERTISE
Board of Directors
Music Works Northwest is guided by a volunteer board of directors who ensure the organization’s mission and sustainability.
Community leaders: Advocates for arts education and nonprofit impact in the Pacific Northwest.
Strategic oversight: Providing governance, fundraising, and vision for long-term growth.
Commitment to access: Ensuring tuition assistance, instrument loan programs, and outreach remain strong.
ADMINISTRATION
Our Staff
Our supportive staff keeps Music Works Northwest programs running smoothly.
Administrative support: Helping parents and students with registration, scheduling, and program details.
Community engagement: Managing outreach, events, and donor support.
Student services: Ensuring every family feels supported from enrollment to performance.
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 nurtured a life-long love of music through Music Works’ programs.
Our alumni include professional performers, educators, composers, and music industry leaders who began their training at Music Works Northwest.
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Learn more about Music Works alumni.
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READY TO GET STARTED?
Start Your Musical Journey
Explore our lessons, ensembles, camps, and community programs to find the right path for you or your student.