Robert Stahly (center) conducts the Symphony South summer camp student musicians during their finale concert on July 23, 2026
This summer, Symphony South returned for its second season, bringing together talented young musicians from across South King County for an immersive month of orchestral training, artistic growth, and community. Students attended rehearsals four days a week for three hours each day, learning from an exceptional team of educators and professional artists before sharing their accomplishments in a finale concert for an enthusiastic audience of families, friends, and supporters.
Led by Key to Change music instructor Dr. Natasha Kubit, Symphony South is a partnership between Key to Change and Federal Way Public Schools that provides students with a high-quality orchestral experience while building confidence, discipline, collaboration, and leadership through music.
Throughout the month, students rehearsed daily under the direction of Robert Stahly, resident conductor of Symphony South and a doctoral candidate in orchestral conducting at the University of Washington School of Music. His thoughtful leadership challenged students to listen more deeply, perform with greater musical awareness, and experience the collaboration that defines outstanding orchestras.
Reflecting on the program, Dr. Kubit shared that “the most meaningful outcome was not simply hearing the orchestra improve musically, but watching students grow in confidence, become more independent, and invest in one another’s success”. She elaborated that “students supported one another, embraced musical risks, and developed a deeper understanding of what it means to perform as a unified ensemble”.
Beyond orchestra rehearsals, students learned from an outstanding team of guest artists who brought a wide range of professional expertise to the program. Actress Shaunyce Omar led theater workshops focused on confidence, communication, and stage presence, helping students become more expressive performers both on and off the stage.
Seattle Symphony musicians Nathan Chan, Assistant Principal Cellist, and Timothy Garland, a member of the first violin section, joined Key to Change music instructors Mara Gearman and Geoffrey Liu to lead masterclasses, sectionals, and individualized coaching. Together, they refined students’ technique, strengthened ensemble playing, and encouraged thoughtful musical expression.
Supporting the instructional team was Seattle University sophomore David Teramaya, a violinist, economics major, and student intern at Key to Change. Throughout the summer camp, he assisted rehearsals, mentored younger musicians, and contributed to the collaborative learning environment that makes Symphony South unique.
Symphony South students practicing with instructors Mara Gearman (left) and Timothy Garland (right) of the Seattle Symphony
Nathan Chan of the Seattle Symphony (center) surrounded by Symphony South students after his masterclass
The week concluded with an inspiring finale concert attended by families, community members, and Dr. Dani Pfeiffer, Superintendent of Federal Way Public Schools. Her attendance reflected the strong partnership between Federal Way Public Schools and Key to Change and our shared commitment to expanding access to exceptional music education throughout South King County.
As Symphony South continues to grow, so does its impact. By bringing together outstanding educators, professional musicians, and motivated students, the program creates opportunities that extend far beyond a single performance. Students leave with stronger musical skills, greater confidence, and a deeper appreciation for what can be accomplished through collaboration, discipline, and artistic excellence.
We are grateful to our faculty, guest artists, partners, families, and supporters who made this year’s Symphony South possible. Together, we are helping the next generation of young musicians discover not only how to perform at a higher level, but how to lead, collaborate, and thrive through music.
Symphony South 2026 students performing their finale concert at Thomas Jefferson High School in Federal Way
