Pictured: Viola student, Ciku, and Dr. John Popham during his masterclass
University of Washington Assistant Professor of Cello and Strings Chamber Music Coordinator, Dr. John Popham, recently brought world class artistry and mentorship to our Renton studio and the impact was immediate.
Last Thursday evening, the room was filled with quiet intensity. Bows hovered. Shoulders lifted with anticipation. Six Key to Change students, Avi, Ciku, Tyree, Jake, Tomas, and Laila, prepared to perform for a guest artist whose experience spans international stages and top conservatories.
One by one, they stepped forward.
As each student played, Dr. Popham listened with deep focus. His feedback reached beyond technical refinement. He challenged students to clarify their musical intention, shape phrases with purpose, and connect emotionally to every note. When a student replayed a passage after adjusting bow speed and articulation, the difference was unmistakable. The sound opened and confidence followed.
What began as visible nerves transformed into bright smiles and steady posture. You could see their belief in themselves growing in real time.
World-Class Experience Close to Home
Dr. Popham is a Seattle-based cellist, chamber musician, and educator whose work reflects both artistic excellence and a deep commitment to inclusive pedagogy. A founding member of the acclaimed trio Longleash, he has led masterclasses across the United States and Europe. He previously taught for Juilliard’s Music Advancement Program and holds degrees from the Manhattan School of Music and the CUNY Graduate Center.
His approach aligns powerfully with Key to Change’s mission that every young musician deserves access to exceptional instruction and the space to fully express who they are.
For many of our students, opportunities like this are rare. Access to artists of Dr. Popham’s caliber expands what feels possible, not just musically but personally.
Preparing for the Benaroya Hall Stage
Five of the six masterclass students are preparing to perform alongside the Federal Way Symphony at Benaroya Hall on March 29, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most prestigious stages.
Experiences like this masterclass are more than enrichment, they are preparation. Students refine their technique, strengthen their individual artistry, and build the confidence needed to perform at a high level. When they step onto the Benaroya Hall stage, they will do so knowing they belong there.
Grateful for Partnership
We are deeply grateful to Dr. Popham for investing his time and expertise in our students’ growth. His mentorship reinforces what we believe at Key to Change. When talent meets opportunity, transformation happens.
Moments like this remind us that access matters and that our students deserve nothing less than excellence. If you would like to support experiences like this for our students, we invite you to learn more about our mission and upcoming performances.
Our next masterclass is scheduled for February 19 at our new Federal Way studio location. Middle and High School orchestra students and their families in the surrounding areas are encouraged to attend our Open House. An RSVP is required, and the event is not open to the general public.
Pictured (Left to Right): Jake and Dr. Popham; Sid and Dr. Popham
Pictured (Left to Right): Dr. John Popham and Dr. Quinton Morris
