Curious Kid Program
Inspiring the Next Generation of Classical Music Listeners
A great musical journey can begin with a single concert.
At Capital Keys Performing Arts Foundation, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to experience the beauty and excitement of live classical music.
Through our Curious Kid Program, children ages 7–17 can attend Capital Keys concerts free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult, subject to ticket availability.
Whether your child is learning an instrument or simply discovering music for the first time, we hope to inspire curiosity, encourage listening, and create meaningful musical experiences for the whole family.
Why Curious Kid?
Learning music is about much more than practicing an instrument.
Attending live concerts gives children the chance to watch professional musicians communicate, discover different instruments and composers, and experience music beyond recordings and lessons.
Even children who do not study an instrument can benefit from developing and cultivating listening habits and an appreciation for the arts.
Our goal is simple: to help children become curious, confident, and lifelong listeners.
How to Get Free Tickets
Visit the ticket page for an upcoming Capital Keys concert.
Select a regular adult ticket.
Scroll to the bottom of the ticket options and manually add a Curious Kid complimentary ticket.
Complete checkout for both tickets.
Eligibility: Ages 7–17, accompanied by a paying adult. Complimentary tickets are subject to availability.
Making Music Accessible to More Families
We recognize that even discounted concert tickets may be out of reach for some families.
In addition to Curious Kid, Capital Keys reserves a limited number of complimentary tickets for families experiencing financial hardship. We also collaborate with educational and community partners to expand access for students.
* For ticketing questions or assistance, families and community organizations may contact info@capitalkeys.org to inquire about available opportunities.
Discover the Music Before the Concert
For our Schubert 200 Project, we have created additional educational resources to help young listeners become familiar with the music before attending.
Free 30-Minute Pre-Concert Talks
Presented by pianist and music critic Jed Distler, these online talks introduce the stories, composers, and musical ideas behind each Schubert 200 program.
Interactive Listening Trivia
Children and adults can test what they have learned through our Schubert listening trivia activities, making the concert experience more engaging and enjoyable.
These resources are free and available even to families who cannot attend the concert in person.
*Educational talks and trivia are currently offered as part of Schubert 200 and are not included with every Capital Keys concert.
Meet the Program Director
Dr. YiQiao Li
Pianist, Educator & Director of the Curious Kid Program
Dr. YiQiao Li is a concert pianist and music educator who believes in the importance of introducing children to live musical experiences from an early age.
As Director of the Curious Kid Program, she helps advance Capital Keys' mission of making classical music more accessible to young listeners and families.
Join Us at a Concert
Give your child the opportunity to discover something new, hear extraordinary musicians, and experience the joy of live classical music.