Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Music Works NW
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 1331 118th Ave SE Ste 400
City: Bellevue
State: Washington
Postal Code: 98005-3873
Main Phone: 4256440988
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.musicworksnw.org
Employer ID Number: 916072271
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 2/25/26
Requested Amount: 10000

Project Title: Youth Music Access Pathway: Building Confidence and Skills Through Equitable Music Education
Project Description:

As a Florida‑based board president of Music Works Northwest (MWNW), I am committed to ensuring that children, teens, and young adults up to age 21 have access to high‑quality music education that builds confidence, resilience, and long‑term potential – outcomes that closely mirror the Hermanowski Family Foundation’s commitment to helping young people gain the tools they need to succeed. For more than 60 years, MWNW has served families in King County, Washington state, expanding free and reduced‑cost access through an equity‑driven pathway designed to remove financial, cultural, and psychological barriers. Each step welcomes new learners, builds trust, and supports sustained engagement in music. Across this pathway, MWNW uses music as a practical, evidence‑based tool that strengthens confidence, discipline, emotional regulation, and academic readiness.

The pathway begins with Free Community Concerts, which introduce young people and their families to live music in a welcoming, low‑barrier environment. Instrument Discovery Days deepen this engagement by offering hands‑on exploration in a culturally inclusive, low‑pressure setting where children, teens, and caregivers can try instruments, meet instructors, and build comfort—especially important for first‑generation arts learners.

For our youngest participants, Early Childhood Group Music Classes (birth–5) support early brain development, language growth, motor skills, and emotional resilience while strengthening caregiver–child bonding. Families select the price point that works for them, ensuring dignity, privacy, and real choice. These classes help families experience music as a joyful, shared activity and often serve as the first step into long‑term participation.

For families ready to continue, our new First Notes Music Pathway—launching this year—offers structured, affordable instruction that expands opportunities for youth up to age 21. First Notes provides two free lessons supported by a $57.50 in‑kind instructional investment each, followed by up to eight pay‑what‑you‑can lessons ($10, $25, $40, or $57.50). MWNW subsidizes the difference to ensure dignity, choice, and equitable access for every family. After these 10 lessons, students may continue in private lessons, group classes, or ensembles, supported by MWNW’s tuition assistance and scholarship programs to keep long‑term participation affordable.

Together, these programs create a clear, supportive pathway that equips young people with the tools they need to thrive.

Total Project Budget: 100000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): 4Culture Grant; family foundations;

Project Duration: 2027
Geographical Area Served: King County, Washington
Age Group To Be Served: birth to 21

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms
Contact First Name: Alexandra
Contact Last Name: Olsen
Contact Title: Board President
Contact Phone: 4258906689
Contact Email: aolsen@musicworksnw.org