Dr. Quinton Morris (left) and Johnaye Kendrick, Key to Change’s Composer-in-Residence (right)
Key to Change is welcoming an extraordinary artistic leader to our community as two time GRAMMY-winning vocalist, arranger, composer, orchestrator, and multi-instrumentalist, and member of the all-female vocal ensemble säje, Johnaye Kendrick steps into the role as our fourth Composer-in-Residence for the 2026-2027 academic year. Throughout her residency, she will compose original works for students studying both violin and viola, giving young musicians the unique opportunity to learn and perform music written specifically for them.
“I am honored to serve as Composer in Residence alongside the talented students of Key to Change,” said Kendrick. “It is inspiring to collaborate with these young musicians, as they represent the vital voices and future leaders in classical music.”
A dedicated mentor and educator, Johnaye Kendrick serves as the Chair and Professor of Music at Seattle University’s Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle. Kendrick received a Bachelor of Music from Western Michigan University, a Master of Music Degree in Jazz Studies from Loyola University, and an Artist Diploma from the prestigious Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz (formerly named after Thelonious Monk). During her studies, she worked closely with leading jazz musicians, including Terence Blanchard, Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Danilo Perez, Kurt Rosenwinkel, and Brian Blade. She’s also been featured with the Ellis Marsalis Quartet and the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra.
“Having a composer of Johnaye’s artistic brilliance working directly with our students is transformational”, said Dr. Quinton Morris, Executive Director and Founder of Key to Change. “She is not only an exceptional musician but a passionate educator who believes in empowering young people through access and excellence in music.” This residency aligns with Key to Change’s mission to support underserved youth through music education and leadership development by providing them with direct interaction with a prominent contemporary composer.
Students will debut the music Kendrick has composed and perform alongside her and her band on Saturday, June 13 at noon at our Renton location. Johnaye Kendricks’s Composer-in-Residence post is generously sponsored by Classical King FM 98.1.
