Key to Change Students Bring Music, Culture, and Connection to University House Wallingford

On August 1, eight students from Key to Change filled University House Wallingford with music, artistry, and inspiring stories of growth. Families, friends, and more than 50 residents gathered to hear violinists and violists from our Young Artists Academy and three group classes (Allegro, Saint-Georges, Joseph White).

The program included performances by Jake Lee, Natalie Anderson, Anvi Gowda, Za’Rahia Howell, Evelina-Nikol Medved, Lily Eang, Sona Sherpa, and Jessica Dinh, and a question-and-answer session moderated by Robert Simonds, Director of Strategic Relationships & Partnerships and Dr. Natasha Kubit, Music Instructor of Violin & Viola. 

Music ranged from well-known classical pieces like Witches’ Dance, composed by 19th-century Italian violinist Niccolò Paganini, to more modern ones like Chocolate Drops by 20th-century African-American composer Will Marion Cook. The audience also shared how much they enjoyed the masterful accompaniment from Key to Change’s own pianist and coach, Chris Powell, who played elegantly on University House’s beautiful and resonant Steinweg piano. 

This event was a chance for students to connect with and serve intergenerational audiences on the North Side. And for several of the students, this was also their first opportunity to perform for a retirement community. 

In addition to performance opportunities with regional orchestras students often perform at community events such as this one. Other special events this year have included Seattle University’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Dr. Day Commemoration, a Mother’s Day event at Cascadia Art Museum in Edmonds, and two performances with King County Library System at the Auburn and Renton Highlands library locations. In the past, Key to Change students have performed at cultural institutions like the Museum of Glass in Tacoma and for special guests like Former Vice President Kamala Harris and Former First Lady Jill Biden.  

University House Wallingford, part of Era Living communities, is well known for its unique partnership with the University of Washington Retirement Association (UWRA). The relationship gives University House an academic, active, and vibrant culture where residents share a passion for knowledge and the desire to stay active in mind, body, and spirit. Their commitment to lifelong learning and access to art and culture made them a natural partner for Key to Change.  

“When I get to see our students expressing themselves as young leaders and musicians, I’m always impressed by their progress,” said Mr. Simonds. “I remain thankful to our wonderful community partners, like University House Wallingford, for showcasing our students and allowing them to share their talents with intergenerational audiences.”

Key to Change would like to extend a special thank you to two members of University House staff in particular: Life Enrichment Director, Emma Jay Byfield, for partnership and program organization, and Recreation Assistant, Anders Bowe, who provided fantastic support on the event day. 

We look forward to sharing more music, stories, and student leadership with our community. To be notified of upcoming free community events, such as the City of Renton’s Harvest Festival Extravaganza all day on Saturday, September 19, sign up for our e-newsletter here.