As the Chopin Academy of Music approaches the final months of its 20th Anniversary Season, we find ourselves reflecting on what has truly been an exceptional and inspiring year. From guest artist residencies and masterclasses to award-winning student performances and faculty collaborations, this season has highlighted the depth of artistry and commitment that defines our musical community. We’re about more than just music lessons in Issaquah.

While many memorable events have already taken place, several important performances and masterclasses remain — each offering students and audiences the opportunity to experience live artistry at the highest level.

These closing events also serve as an important reminder of what distinguishes a comprehensive music education: not only weekly lessons, but exposure to professional performance, thoughtful repertoire, and the living traditions of classical music.

March 29: Kaminska & Bowlby in Concert

On March 29 at 2:00 PM, Chopin Academy founders Dr. Ivona Kaminska and Dr. Christopher Bowlby present a program centered on the imaginative world of Robert Schumann, one of the most poetic voices of the Romantic era.

A unifying artistic idea behind this program is the concept of the Davidsbündler — an artistic circle envisioned by Schumann representing individuality, imagination, and artistic integrity in response to the musical culture of his time. The program explores this spirit through works that balance introspection, lyricism, and virtuosity.

For students of piano, violin, cello, flute, and chamber music, concerts such as this offer valuable insight into interpretation, tone production, collaboration, and musical structure. Observing professional musicians communicate musical ideas in real time deepens understanding in ways that cannot be replicated through practice alone.

Live performance remains one of the most powerful educational tools available to developing musicians.

April 25–26: Guest Artists, Masterclasses, and the Anniversary Finale

The anniversary season culminates in a concentrated series of guest artist events on April 25 and April 26, offering students multiple opportunities to observe and participate in high-level musical exchange.

On April 25 (4:00–7:00 PM), guest artists Cezary Karwowski and Sean Terada Yang will lead a joint masterclass at the Chopin Academy, providing students with individualized feedback and insight drawn from international performance experience.

On April 26 (11:15 AM–1:15 PM), we welcome Dr. Yi-Yang Chen, Assistant Professor of Piano at the University of Kansas, for an additional masterclass exploring advanced interpretive and technical topics.

Later that afternoon, the 20th Anniversary Concert Series concludes with a guest recital by Cezary Karwowski and Sean Terada Yang, presenting a program that reflects virtuosity, stylistic depth, and artistic individuality.

Together, these events provide a rare opportunity for students to experience multiple artistic perspectives in a short period of time. Exposure to varied interpretive approaches strengthens musical flexibility and deepens understanding of style and technique.

A Year of Artistic Growth

Throughout the academic year, Chopin Academy students have benefited from an unusually rich sequence of artistic experiences — opportunities that support not only technical development, but also musical maturity and confidence.

Serious study of music involves more than learning notes. It involves:

• understanding stylistic traditions
• listening critically
• performing regularly
• engaging with the broader artistic community
• learning from multiple artistic perspectives

These experiences form the foundation of lasting musicianship.

The breadth of activity during this anniversary season has created an environment in which students can connect weekly lesson work with real-world artistic practice.

Looking Ahead

As the 20th Anniversary Season draws to a close, these final events highlight the values that continue to shape the Chopin Academy of Music:

careful teaching, disciplined practice, artistic curiosity, and meaningful engagement with the musical tradition.

We invite students, families, and members of the community to join us for these concluding performances and masterclasses, and to share in the musical dialogue that has defined the Chopin Academy of Music for the past twenty years.

We look forward to continuing this tradition in the years ahead.

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As we move through the heart of the academic year, the Chopin Academy of Music finds itself at a meaningful moment—one shaped by student accomplishments, inspiring performances, and the shared work of a remarkable teaching community. The 2025–26 season marks our 20th anniversary, and the months so far have given us much to celebrate.

Student Achievements and Faculty Guidance

Since September, CAM students have earned over 135 awards in regional, national, and international competitions, including two Grand Prix prizes and 35 Gold Medals. These recognitions reflect not only hours of focused practice, but the steady guidance and mentorship of our faculty, who work closely with each student to develop musical understanding, discipline, and confidence over time. Visit our Hall of Fame for a complete list.

This year’s achievements span a wide range of competitions—from Bach Festival International and MTNA events to American Protégé and international online competitions—demonstrating the breadth of repertoire and artistry our students continue to cultivate. A full list of awards can be found on our website’s Hall of Fame, but behind every result is a deeper story of growth, persistence, and thoughtful teaching.

A 20th Anniversary Season of Concerts and Masterclasses

Alongside these accomplishments, the fall months brought memorable artistic experiences to the Academy community. Guest concerts and masterclasses with Dominic Doutney, Sara Davis Buechner, Alexandre Dossin, and Zeru Wang gave students the opportunity to learn directly from accomplished performers and educators, reinforcing the idea that musical education thrives at the intersection of study and live performance.

As the season continues, we are especially looking forward to the next major event in our anniversary celebration: CAM Faculty in Concert on January 25, 2026. This evening brings together members of the Chopin Academy’s piano and string faculty in a program of solo and chamber works, offering audiences a chance to hear the artists who guide and shape our students’ musical journeys. The program features music by composers ranging from J.S. Bach and Beethoven to Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky, Johann Strauss, and Qigang Chen, highlighting both tradition and stylistic range.

Faculty concerts hold a special place at CAM. They are not only performances, but living examples of artistry, collaboration, and lifelong musicianship—values at the core of our teaching philosophy. For students, seeing their teachers on stage reinforces what is possible through sustained study and dedication; for families and audiences, it offers insight into the depth of experience within our faculty.

The months ahead will continue the celebration with additional concerts, recitals, and masterclasses, including our General Student Recital on February 1, the Kaminska–Bowlby concert on March 29, and a concert and masterclass with Sean Yang and Cezary Karwowski on April 26. Visit here for a complete list of events.

As we look toward the new year, we are grateful to our students, families, faculty, and supporters for being part of the Chopin Academy of Music community. We invite you to join us on January 25 as we celebrate 20 years of music—and the people who make it possible—together.

Join Us for CAM Faculty in Concert

Sunday, January 25, 2026

We warmly invite our students, families, and community members to attend CAM Faculty in Concert, a centerpiece event of the Chopin Academy of Music’s 20th Anniversary Season.

This special evening features members of our piano and string faculty performing solo and chamber works that reflect the artistry, experience, and musical values at the heart of the Academy.

Event Details

• Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026 at 2 pm
• Event: CAM Faculty in Concert
• Admission: $20 at the door
  (Free for CAM students, with up to two accompanying family members)

Exam Track Reminder:
Attendance at Academy-sponsored concerts—including faculty concerts—is a required component of the CAM Exam Track. Families are encouraged to plan accordingly and take advantage of this meaningful listening opportunity.

We hope you will join us to celebrate our faculty, our students, and 20 years of music-making at the Chopin Academy of Music.

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While others talk about excellence, we deliver it—week after week, concert after concert. As the Chopin Academy of Music celebrates its 20th anniversary, we’re not just looking back at two decades of student success, top competition results, and transformative education—we’re raising the bar for what a music school can and should be.

No Other School Does This. Period.

Let’s be blunt: no other music school in the Pacific Northwest presents anything close to what CAM offers its students. In the 2025–26 season alone, we’re hosting a jaw-dropping lineup of international guest artists, including names who perform in the world’s most prestigious venues and conservatories. These are not livestreams or distant dreams—these are live, in-person events, held in professional venues, for the benefit of our students and families.

Just last weekend, we welcomed Dominic Doutney, 2024 Professional Gold Medalist of the Seattle International Piano Competition and winner of the Washington International Competition. With breathtaking lyricism, poignant poise, and fearless virtuosity, he filled the Sacred Heart Chapel to the rafters, earning a standing ovation in one of the most stirring guest artist recitals in recent memory. This was not just a concert—it was a glimpse into the future of piano artistry.

There is no substitute for the visceral energy of a live performance—what students learn from the nuances, presence, and unpredictability of a concert cannot be replicated in recordings or the classroom.

This kind of shared musical experience doesn’t just elevate artistry—it strengthens community. As a recent article from the University of Oslo puts it: “Concerts bind people together… music may have offered an advantage for survival.” The study found that live audiences feel greater connection not only with the musicians, but with one another—something livestreams simply can’t replicate.

→ Read the full article: The miraculous effect of music: Concerts bind people together

What’s Next? World-Class, On Repeat.

Our next guest? The legendary Sara Davis Buechner—one of North America’s most compelling concert pianists—arrives in October for another masterclass and recital experience you won’t want to miss. Later in the year, we welcome Alexandre Dossin, Zeru Wang, Sean Terada Yang, Cezary Karwowski, combined CAM faculty, and more, rounding out a season that could rival the artist roster of a major university or festival.

All of this is part of our 20th Anniversary Celebration, a full academic year of special events that include faculty concerts, alumni showcases, and opportunities for students to perform, grow, and be inspired.

For Our Students, It’s Free—and It’s Required

Unlike other schools that charge steep fees for masterclasses or high-profile events, CAM students and their families attend these recitals free of charge (with up to two accompanying adults). For students in our Exam Track, attendance at two of these events is required in order to qualify for our annual Honors Recital at Benaroya Hall—but frankly, you’ll want to attend more.

Why? Because sitting just feet away from the artistry of international musicians changes how you hear, how you learn, and how you play. It elevates everything.

Come be a part of the Northwest’s most vibrant and ambitious music school. Whether you’re here to build a future in music—or simply want to experience the joy of high-level learning in a world-class environment—there’s no better time to be at CAM.

Visit chopinacademy.com for the full season schedule and join us as we celebrate 20 unforgettable years—with many more to come.

The post The Northwest’s Premier Music School Turns 20 appeared first on Chopin Academy of Music.

The Chopin Academy of Music proudly marks its 20th anniversary this season with a year-long series of concerts and special events. Since its founding in Issaquah, CAM has become a place where artistry and education meet, shaping hundreds of young musicians who have gone on to achieve success locally, nationally, and internationally. This milestone season offers our community an opportunity both to reflect on two decades of growth and to look ahead to the future of music-making.

All concerts take place on Sunday afternoons at 2 pm at the Sacred Heart Chapel, Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart in Bellevue. General admission is $20 at the door, and free for CAM students with up to two accompanying adults.

The 20th Anniversary Season at a Glance

• September 14, 2025 – Guest Artist Concert: Dominic Doutney
  British pianist Dominic Doutney, winner of the 2024 Washington International Competition and the Seattle International Piano Competition (Professional Artist Category), opens the season with a recital of profound artistry and technical brilliance. This event is free of charge and made possible in part by the Seattle International Piano Festival and Classic Pianos.
  Masterclass: September 13.

  
  

• October 19, 2025 – Guest Artist Concert: Sara Davis Buechner
  Internationally celebrated pianist Sara Davis Buechner joins the season with a landmark recital. A Steinway Artist with a career spanning major world stages and acclaimed recordings, Buechner is recognized as one of today’s most compelling and original performers.
  Masterclass: October 20.

  
  

• November 8–9, 2025 – Guest Artist Clinic: Dr. Alexandre Dossin
  CAM welcomes Dr. Alexandre Dossin, Steinway Artist and Professor of Piano at the University of Oregon, for a two-day residency. Praised by Martha Argerich as an “extraordinary musician” and hailed internationally as a “master of contrasts,” he leads a series of masterclasses and performances for our students.

  
  

• November 23, 2025 – Guest Artist Concert: Zeru Wang
  Dr. Zeru Wang, pianist, scholar, and CAM faculty member, shares a recital featuring both known and lesser-known repertoire. His artistry combines technical mastery with historical insight, offering a performance that reflects his reputation as both performer and pedagogue.

  
  

• January 25, 2026 – Joint Faculty Concert
  Our distinguished faculty, recognized both as gifted teachers and accomplished performers, present an afternoon of solo works for piano and cello. Featured performers include Maxwell Adkisson, Isaac Berglind, Chelsea Bloomberg, Chen Liang, and Ross Salvosa.

  
  

• March 1, 2026 – Alumni & Honors Students in Concert
  We welcome back CAM graduates alongside our rising stars. Distinguished alumni Robert Yan and Shichu (David) Liu join top Honors Students for a celebratory concert that showcases both legacy and the future of CAM talent.

  
  

• March 29, 2026 – Founders’ Concert
  As founders and directors of CAM, Dr. Ivona Kaminska and Dr. Christopher Bowlby share the stage in a rare joint performance. Their program combines solo and four-hand works, highlighting both beloved repertoire and hidden gems.

  
  

• April 26, 2026 – Guest Artist Concert: Sean Terada Yang & Cezary Karwowski
  Closing the anniversary season are Sean Terada Yang (Collegiate Gold Medalist, SIPC 2024) and Cezary Karwowski (Collegiate Silver Medalist, SIPC 2024) in a joint recital of virtuosic solo works. Together, they promise a finale filled with dazzling technique and inspired artistry.
  Masterclass: April 25.

  
  

Looking Ahead

The 20th Anniversary Season is more than a celebration of the past—it is a launchpad for the future. Through guest concerts, faculty and alumni recitals, and an extraordinary series of masterclasses, we reaffirm our mission: to nurture artistry, inspire passion, and build a community of musicians prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

We invite you to join us for this extraordinary year of music.

The post 20 Years of Music appeared first on Chopin Academy of Music.

This summer marks a truly momentous occasion for the Chopin Academy of Music (CAM)—our 20th anniversary in the heart of Issaquah, Washington. From our humble beginnings to our evolution into one of the region’s most esteemed institutions for classical music education, we are filled with gratitude as we look back on two decades of artistry, growth, and unforgettable performances.

Whether you’re a current CAM family from Issaquah, a student traveling from Sammamish, or an alumnus who began your musical journey with us years ago, this is a celebration for our entire community.

🎶 A Year-Long Festival of Music and Inspiration

To honor this special 20-year milestone, CAM is preparing a full slate of special events and performances throughout the 2025–2026 academic year. Our goal is to make this anniversary not only a reflection on the past, but a launchpad for the next generation of musicians.

Here’s what you can expect:

• World-renowned guest artists performing exclusive recitals and leading masterclasses for CAM students.

• Opportunities to participate in student recitals at exciting new venues beyond our usual stages.

• Engaging events that unite our music community across Issaquah, Sammamish, and the greater Eastside.

These experiences will give our students access to inspirational performances and hands-on learning that go beyond the classroom. It’s a chance to celebrate not just how far we’ve come, but where our music can take us next.

🎹 A New Instrument for a New Chapter

In honor of this important anniversary, the Chopin Academy of Music has also invested in a brand-new, high-level concert piano that will become the primary instrument of the Chopin Recital Hall. This exceptional instrument will be available for use during:

• Performance classes

• Small recitals

• Special events

Whether you’re performing a polished sonata or presenting a work-in-progress to peers, this new piano will offer an inspiring platform for musical expression. For students from Sammamish and nearby cities who regularly attend classes in Issaquah, this is a meaningful upgrade that enriches every playing opportunity.

📅 Stay Tuned

We’ll be unveiling more details in the coming months—including the names of our featured guest artists, full event schedules, and exciting updates on venues. Be sure to keep an eye on your inbox and follow us on social media so you don’t miss a single note of this year-long celebration.

This 20th anniversary is more than a milestone—it’s a tribute to every student, parent, teacher, and music lover who has been part of the Chopin Academy of Music family. From Issaquah to Sammamish and beyond, thank you for making these past two decades extraordinary. Here’s to the next 20 years of music, inspiration, and excellence.

The post A Special Celebration appeared first on Chopin Academy of Music.

Saturday, September 21: Unranked Gold Medalist Winners’ Concert and Final Round Competitions

Morning Session: Unranked Gold Medalist Winners’ Concert (Ages 9 and under) & Final Round (Ages 10 to 13)

• Time: 10:00 am to 12:15 pm
• Details: The morning kicks off with the Unranked Gold Medalist Winners’ Concert for the youngest category, followed by the final round for ages 10 to 13. This session showcases the extraordinary talent of young pianists who have already achieved remarkable success. Attendees have the exciting opportunity to vote for the “Audience and Teachers’ Favorites” awards, making your participation even more interactive and impactful.
• Admission: $44 general, $34 seniors, and $34 students

Afternoon Session: Seattle Int’l Piano Competition Finalists (Youth, Ages 14 to 18)

• Time: 1:30 pm to 2:45 pm
• Details: The afternoon continues with the final performances of the Youth category, ages 14 to 18. These young artists are on the cusp of their professional careers, and their performances promise to be both technically and emotionally compelling. Don’t forget to cast your vote for the “Audience and Teachers’ Favorites” awards!
• Admission: $44 general, $34 seniors, and $34 students

Sunday, September 22: Final Rounds and the Grand Finale

Morning Session: Seattle Int’l Piano Competition Finalists (Collegiate Artists)

• Time: 10:00 am to 12:15 pm
• Details: The day begins with the Collegiate Artists category, where top-tier students from prestigious music institutions compete for the top honors. Their performances will demonstrate the high level of skill and artistry expected from musicians at this stage of their careers. As with all sessions, attendees can vote for their favorite performers.
• Admission: $44 general, $34 seniors, and $34 students

Afternoon Session: Seattle Int’l Piano Competition Finalists (Professional Artists)

• Time: 1:30 pm to 3:45 pm
• Details: The final round for the Professional Artists category is the highlight of the competition. These seasoned performers bring years of experience and a deep understanding of their repertoire to the stage. It’s a session that will leave a lasting impression, and your vote for the “Audience and Teachers’ Favorites” awards will help shape the outcome.
• Admission: $44 general, $34 seniors, and $34 students

Evening: Guest Artist Recital, Awards Ceremony, and Presentation of 2024 Laureates

• Time: 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm
• Details: The festival concludes with a special recital by Cameron Akioka, the 2022 President’s Prizewinner, followed by the awards ceremony and presentation of the 2024 SIPF laureates. Cameron’s program will include works by Schubert, Debussy, and Bach, offering a masterful conclusion to the weekend’s events. The ceremony will honor the competition’s top performers, celebrating their achievements and hard work.
• Admission: $44 general, $34 seniors, and $34 students

Venue Information

All events will take place at: Illsely Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall
Benaroya Hall
200 University Street, Seattle, WA 98101
(Entry through box office at corner of Union & 3rd)

Why You Should Attend

For students in Issaquah and Sammamish, attending the SIPF not only fulfills your concert attendance requirement but also offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of piano performance. You’ll see firsthand the level of excellence that’s achievable through dedication and hard work, and you’ll be inspired to push your own limits as a musician. Plus, your participation in voting for the “Audience and Teachers’ Favorites” awards adds a personal touch to the event, allowing you to directly influence the outcome.

Tickets are available now, and they’re going fast. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary event!

🎟️ Link to tickets

For any questions regarding your concert attendance requirements or if you need help selecting which events to attend, please feel free to reach out to your instructor. We look forward to seeing you at the Seattle International Piano Competition!

The post SIPF Lineup Schedule for September 21-22 appeared first on Chopin Academy of Music.

We are excited to announce the launch of the new Chopin Academy of Music (CAM) website portal, designed to make your musical journey smoother and more organized than ever before. Whether you’re a student from Issaquah, Sammamish, or beyond, this portal is your one-stop resource for managing your lessons, staying on top of your schedule, and accessing important information.

Our new portal, powered by the TeachWorks platform, offers a range of features that will enhance your learning experience and keep you connected with your instructors. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the key tools available to you:

1. Easy Access to Lesson Notes

Say goodbye to forgotten assignments and unclear practice instructions. With the CAM website portal, you can access detailed lesson notes for each of your lessons, and all registered children. Your instructor will provide feedback, practice suggestions, and any other important details you need to work on between sessions. This feature ensures that you always know exactly what to focus on, helping you make the most of your practice time. You will also receive them in an email after each lesson has concluded.

2. Comprehensive Calendar

Keeping track of your lesson schedule has never been easier. The portal includes a comprehensive calendar that shows all your upcoming lessons, events, and important dates. Whether you’re planning around school activities in Issaquah or family commitments in Sammamish, you can view and manage your schedule with ease. You’ll also receive reminders to help you stay on top of your commitments.

3. Seamless Communication

Need to get in touch with your instructor or the CAM administrative team? The portal provides a simple way to reach us with any questions or concerns. Whether it’s a last-minute schedule change or a question about your lesson materials, we’re just a few clicks away.

4. Centralized Resources

The portal is more than just a scheduling tool—it’s a hub for all your music education needs. Over the coming weeks, we’ll be rolling out additional features that will include practice resources, video tutorials, and more. This centralized approach ensures that everything you need is right at your fingertips, whether you’re at home in Sammamish or on the go in Issaquah.

5. Future Enhancements

We’re committed to making the CAM website portal a powerful tool for our students and their families. In upcoming blog posts, we’ll be outlining even more features, such as automated billing, detailed progress reports, and other tools to support your musical journey. Stay tuned for more information on how the portal can help you succeed.

How to Get Started

Getting started with the new CAM website portal is easy. Simply log in using the credentials provided by our administrative team, and you’ll have immediate access to all the tools and resources available. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us through the portal’s communication feature. And if you never received your invitation, ping us! We are here to help you in introducing the new CAM website portal.

For our students in Issaquah and Sammamish, this portal is designed to fit seamlessly into your busy lives, making it easier to balance your musical education with other activities. We’re confident that this new system will provide you with the organization and support you need to excel in your studies.

Ready to explore the new CAM website portal? Log in today and take advantage of all the great features we’ve put in place to help you succeed. We’re excited to embark on this new chapter of music education with you!

If you need further assistance accessing or activating your portal, write to issaquah@chopinacademy.com.

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