Our Programs
Every child deserves a way into music
From first lessons to ensembles and performances, KEYS gives young musicians free opportunities to learn, create and grow.
LEARN
Build skills with dedicated music educators
CREATE
Explore music individually and together
PERFORM
Build confidence by taking the stage
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What KEYS makes possible
Two ways in. One community.
Whether learning one-to-one, playing alongside others or exploring new ways to create, every KEYS student has a place to grow.
What students get
Dedicated Weekly Instruction- Instrument Provided to Keep
- Mentorship from Musicians
- Mainstage Showcases
Music for Life
Free individual music lessons offered in-school, after-school and on Saturdays, with experienced KEYS instructors supporting students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Format:
1:1 instruction
Grades:
K–12
Offered:
In-school, after-school & Saturdays
Schools:
21 Bridgeport schools
Saturday Ensembles
Students from across Bridgeport come together to rehearse, perform and grow as musicians through collaborative ensemble experiences.
Format:
Group ensembles
Grades:
Grades 4–12
Includes:
Orchestra, Concert Band, Jazz Band & Chorus
Student insight
“Vocal collective taught me that my voice is an instrument too. I made my closest friends here, harmonizing on the civic center stage.”
— Kiara M., Choir Member Since 2024
Make music all summer
A free four-week summer program where students continue learning and creating together, culminating in a special performance.
The KEYS experience
Everything a young musician needs
KEYS removes barriers to learning by surrounding students with quality instruction, instruments and opportunities to grow.
Free instruments
Removing financial barriers so every student has the tools they need to learn and grow
Experienced educators
Dedicated teachers who guide, encourage and inspire students throughout their musical journey
Performance opportunities
Real stages and experiences where students can perform, connect and build lasting confidence
School & community programs
Accessible music experiences that bring learning closer to students, families and their communities
The musical journey at KEYS
DISCOVER
LEARN
PRACTICE
PERFORM
GROW
Access & enrollment
Opportunity shouldn’t depend on a family’s income
KEYS partners with schools and families across Bridgeport to make high-quality music education accessible at no cost to students.
Interested in KEYS?
- Who can participate
- Students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
- Programs
- One-to-one lessons, Saturday ensembles, electronic music and summer programs.
- Cost
- KEYS programs are free for participating students.
$4,125 Value of programming provided per student each year. 100% free to Bridgeport students
Register Now →
Alumni story
“KEYS helped me grow into the musician I am today”
I first joined KEYS in 2016 and joined the KEYS Internship Program in 2023. Today, I'm in my senior year at Western Connecticut State University studying Jazz Performance.
KEYS has influenced my journey in music by providing me access to music education, later encouraging me to experience all aspects of being a musician in composing, arranging, teaching, and performing. I am forever grateful for KEYS!
Ciara B.
Flute, Voice, Jazz · Western Connecticut State University, Class of 2027
Give today
Find your way into the KEYS community
Whether you’re discovering music for the first time or ready to take the next step, there’s a place to learn, create and grow at KEYS.