Bellevue, WA August 2026

The Houghton House 2.0

A bold expression of contemporary architecture, The Houghton House 2.0 pairs exceptional design with cutting-edge technology. Designed by McCullough Architects and built by Highlands Builders Group, this extraordinary residence features soaring interiors, a chef’s kitchen, luxurious primary retreat, and rooftop deck with sweeping Lake Washington views, all moments from downtown Kirkland.

The Kids Issue

August has always felt like the grand finale of summer.

It's the season of sticky popsicle fingers, backyard adventures, long afternoons at the park, and those fleeting moments that somehow become the memories we cherish most. For many of us, it's also a time spent making the most of the extra daylight with the people, pets, and communities that bring joy to our everyday lives.

This month's Kids issue celebrates those connec tions and the individuals who are making a meaningful impact on families throughout our region.

On our cover, you'll meet the creative team behind Wiggles & Giggles Co., a local coloring book company that has transformed a simple idea into a growing business bringing creativity, imagination, and connection to children and families across the country.

You'll also be inspired by the story of Scilla Andreen, a former Eastside resident and filmmaker whose passion for storytelling led her to create Impactful Networks and the Impactful Fund. Through powerful, story-based programming, her organization is helping young people feel seen, supported, and connected while bringing emotional wellness resources into schools nationwide, including right here in the Bellevue School District.

And for those looking to savor the final weeks of summer, we're taking a trip east to explore Yakima Valley, where sunshine, agriculture, award-winning wineries, and wide-open landscapes offer the perfect Pacific Northwest getaway.

Whether you're spending these last weeks of summer with your children, grandchildren, four-legged companions, or simply enjoying the longer days with friends and neighbors, I hope this issue inspires you to embrace the moments that matter most.

Thank you, as always, for supporting the incredible local businesses, organizations, and individuals that make Bellevue such a special place to call home.

Wishing you a joyful August and a wonderful close to the summer season!

Warmly,

TAYLOR ROBINSON, PUBLISHER @BELLEVUELIFESTYLE

PUBLISHER

Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Kristin Kowalewski | kris.kowalewski@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Akiha Studios | nicolai@akihamarketing.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Akiha Studios | kelsie@akihamarketing.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Bree O’Brien, Caitlin Agnew, Kali Kasprzyk, Kristi Sellers, Susie Naficy

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Alluring Images, Akiha Studios, Brett Bollier, Janna of Mellow Nectar Co, Janie Jones, Nikola Prvanovic

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

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city scene

The Bellevue Chamber rebranded their 2026 Annual Gala as “BRAG” — the Bellevue Regional Awards Gala. 1: Former Chamber Board Chairs Beth Osborne and John Milbrath announce the Chamber Member of the Year. 2: Board members Yuliya Hemerlein and Juliana Roe revving up the crowd for the awards ceremony. 3: Councilmembers Claire Sumadiwirya and Lynne Robinson relish in Bellden Cafe’s “People’s Choice Business” win. 4: Kemper Development Company’s John Carlson accepting on behalf of Snowflake Lane for “Experience of the Year”. 5: KidsQuest Children’s Museum President & CEO, Putter Bert, accepting the award for Nonprofit of the Year. 6: From left: Amazon’s Keri Pravitz, Public Official of the Year Claudia Balducci, Planning Commissioner Jonny Lu. 7: Chamber Member of the Year, Kevin Wallace, was the final award winner of the evening. Photography by Bonnie Leung Photography

Jubilee REACH presents The ATTYs 8: Randy Eng, Executive Director of Jubilee REACH, welcoming students and families to the event. 9: All seven Bellevue School District middle schools were celebrated by Jubilee REACH at the awards ceremony. 10: Robert Turbin, a former Seattle Seahawks player and Superbowl champion, joined as a guest speaker. 11: Students excitedly joined the line for a buffet sponsored by El Gaucho. 12: Students enjoyed a bountiful candy bar, professional photo booth, and raffled prizes. 13: Thanks to the Seattle Seahawks, Blitz greeted students as they arrived. 14: Robert Turbin helped emcees draw tickets for raffled prizes. Photography by Dan Apol and Jason Ege

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Hangar Hideaway Adventure at Hyatt Regency Lake Washington

Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle Southport has debuted its new Hangar Hideaway package, an aviation-inspired getaway available through the summer. The experience includes a lakeview guestroom neighboring Boeing's Renton facility, with select rooms offering factory views. The package includes admission to The Museum of Flight for up to four registered guests, complimentary self-parking, and an aviation-themed amenity. Learn more or book at hyattregencylakewashington. com/hangar-hideaway

Stand-Up Comedy Class for Kids

More than just a comedy class, this program helps kids build confidence, communication, and healthy coping skills in a fun and encouraging environment. Led by Cindy Su, a stand-up comedian and therapist, this class is designed for children who can participate in a structured group setting. Kids who complete the class will have the opportunity to perform on stage in front of an audience.

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Sip, Savor, and Celebrate Summer Under the Pines

Celebrate summer at Wine in the Pines on August 8 at Suncadia. This annual event brings together wine tastings, local art, live music, and creative experiences at Suncadia Social. Guests can enjoy small bites, wine or handcrafted mocktails, and interactive entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere designed for gathering with friends and savoring the season. Cap off the evening with an elevated Chef Dinner featuring a thoughtfully crafted multi-course menu.

BREE

WIGGLES & GIGGLES

Photo by Janna

Kayla Miller and Janet Meier met on the soccer field in 5th grade, and have remained best friends in the 30 years since. Despite Meier living in Arizona and Miller based in the Eastside area, the two continue to nurture their friendship, spending time together in Chelan in the summer, and giving their own young children the opportunity to develop relationships as well. It was on one of those trips

where the idea for Wiggles & Giggles coloring books was born. Meier says, “Two summers ago, the kids needed a little downtime, so we pulled out some crayons and coloring pages. Watching them slow down, get creative, and enjoy that simple moment together sparked the idea for Wiggles & Giggles. Kayla has the creative piece and I’ve always been into business and marketing. Together we had both pieces of the equation, so that’s what started it; all the kids playing and moms drinking a glass of wine and thinking ‘Let’s do it!’ We got the computer out and set up an LLC right on the spot.” They released their first coloring book, Little Monsters, and last summer decided to expand their collection. Meier and Miller look to their kids and kids’ friends for inspiration, as well as holidays and seasons. “It’s been a bit of a learning curve for both Janet and I, but something that’s been a passion project in that it scratches that creativity itch for me,” says Miller. “It blends where we’re at in life in terms of motherhood and allows our kids to be included. Mason, my oldest, will ask, ‘Where’s the Wiggle & Giggles superhero coloring book? Can you make a LEGO one?’ Janet’s girls request princesses and mermaids.”

“PARENTS THEMSELVES CAN SIT DOWN AND ENJOY COLORING WITH THEIR CHILD.”

Coloring is a calming, screen-free activity that appeals to all ages - parents themselves can sit down and enjoy coloring with their child. A direct-toconsumer model gives Meier and Miller welcome insights into what’s resonating with families. If there are product variations that customers want to see like subscriptions, multi-book sets, or opportunities for personalization; the partners can adapt to that.

A personal relationship allowed Miller and Meier to find their printer. “We needed a printer that could produce boutique quality coloring books at an accessible price point, and another dance mom told me about her friend starting a printing business. Working with someone locally here in Arizona has opened up a lot of possibilities, like the activity pages are printed in color, which is like such a unique feature and elevates our books,” Meier says. Wiggles & Giggles offers standard sized coloring books, as well as a travel size for on-the-go families.

Pop-up events at local shops offer a valuable venue to interact with kids and hear what they’re excited about. Says Miller, “Our most recent pop-up was at Village Maternity in University Village, they’ve been great supporters of our book and our business. The event was called Monsters and Bugs and a bunch of little kids got to come and enjoy music and our coloring books - the perfect audience.”  In addition to partnering with local kids’ stores, Wiggles & Giggles seeks to build relationships with companies that cater to a similar audience, as well as with influencers and content creators. Both raised by single moms, Meier and Miller have made giving back a priority for their company, and they strive to contribute to organizations that support moms and families.

To learn more about how Wiggles & Giggles is proving that even the simplest moments can spark something special, visit wigglesngigglesco.com

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ANDREEN Scilla

Building Resilience Before the Crisis

By the time a child reaches a point of crisis, the need for support is obvious. But for Scilla Andreen, founder of Impactful Fund, the most meaningful work happens much earlier. It tends to be long before a young person feels isolated, overwhelmed, or unseen.

Through the power of storytelling, brain science and human connection, Scilla  and her team are helping students develop resilience, emotional awareness, and coping skills that can serve them throughout their lives.

“Stories do something data can’t. They make people feel understood. When a student watches one of our films and sees their own experience, the anxiety, the loneliness, the feeling of not fitting in something shifts. Walls come down. Conversations start. Our films are the doorway. What happens after is where the real change begins. Through guided discussions, brain science, and hands-on activities rooted in CBT, students walk away with tools they can actually use. And it doesn’t stop at school. Families get access to the full toolkit at home — the films, the tools, everything. They can watch together, explore at their own pace, and start conversations that might never have happened otherwise. No special training required. Just a movie and an open mind.” says Scilla.

For years, Scilla  has used film and storytelling to spark conversations around topics that are often difficult to discuss. Through Impactful Fund’s educational programs and resources, schools and organizations are given tools that encourage empathy, understanding, and meaningful dialogue. Rather than focusing solely on intervention after problems arise, the organization emphasizes prevention by helping young people build emotional strength before they reach a breaking point.

That work has found a local home through partnerships with several Bellevue schools, where Impactful Fund’s mission aligns with a growing recognition that student wellness extends beyond academics. Emotional well-being, social connection, and a sense of belonging are all critical ingredients in helping children succeed.

According to Scilla, “Prevention is our sweet spot. We get into classrooms before kids hit a wall, so they already have the

ARTICLE BY KRISTI SELLERS PHOTOGRAPHY AS NOTED

tools when life gets hard. Mental health education should be as normal as teaching kids to brush their teeth. It shouldn’t wait until something goes wrong.”

In today’s fast-paced and often digitally connected world, many children are facing challenges that previous generations never experienced. Feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and disconnection have become increasingly common. Scilla believes storytelling offers something powerful in response: the ability to help people recognize themselves in others.

Scilla created The Creative Coping Toolkit working with some of the most recognized mental health institutions in the country. It has now evolved into a world class, evidence-based film program with its roots in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

“Most programs give students information. We create experiences that stay with them. The Creative Coping Toolkit blends award-winning films, brain science, and CBT-based activities into one program that works for students, educators, families, and entire school communities. It’s currently part of a two-year federally funded study and the results are reinforcing what schools have been telling us for years: this works.” says Scilla.

While the topics address mental health, social media, bullying and technology, Scilla’’s vision extends beyond solving problems. At its core, the organization is focused on helping young people understand their brains, connect and flourish.

That means equipping students with tools they can carry into adulthood: empathy, communication, self-awareness, and the confidence to ask for help when they need it. It also means fostering communities where children know they belong.

In many ways, the work mirrors what families hope to provide at home: a foundation of love, understanding, and support that allows children to face life’s inevitable challenges with courage.

According to Scilla, “You are not broken. You are human. Every student will face hard moments. Every family will go through something difficult. That’s life. But when kids understand how their brains work, have real coping tools, and feel genuinely connected to the people around them they can get through almost anything. My hope

“My hope is that every student leaves our program knowing three things: they matter, they belong, and they are not alone.”

is that every student leaves our program knowing three things: they matter, they belong, and they are not alone.”

As conversations around youth mental health continue to evolve, Scilla remains optimistic. She believes that meaningful change doesn’t always begin with grand gestures. Sometimes it starts with a story, a conversation, or simply creating a space where a child feels understood.

And perhaps that is the greatest lesson behind Impactful Fund’s work: resilience isn’t built in moments of crisis. It is built every day, through connection, compassion, and the stories that remind us we belong.

“If you’re a parent, an educator, or someone who cares about kids in our community you can help right now. Tell your principal or school counselor about us. That one conversation could bring this program to your school. Or visit impactfulfund.org to support bringing it to a district near you.” says Scilla.

Scilla Andreen is the founder of both Impactful Fund and Impactful Networks. Impactful Networks develops and delivers evidence-backed mental health education through its creative storytelling and learning platform, while Impactful Fund is the nonprofit arm that helps fund access to those programs for schools and communities that otherwise couldn’t afford them.

To learn more or to support Impactful Fund, visit impactfulfund.org or email us at hello@impactfulfund.org .

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EXP LORE THE REGION WHERE AGRICULTURE, WINE, AND ENDLESS SUNSHINE COME TOGETHER BEAUTIFULLY.

ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW

YAKIMA VALLEY DESTINATION

Less than 3 hours from Bellevue, tucked between rolling sun-drenched hills, is the Yakima Valley, where 300 days of annual sunshine provide ideal growing conditions for exceptional produce and wines.  Generations of farming families have made the region one of the most productive agricultural areas in the country, and  Bellevue Lifestyle had the opportunity to visit and explore.

WHERE TO SIP

No visit to Yakima Valley is complete without exploring the wineries that have helped establish the region as one of Washington’s premier wine destinations, and the following standout wineries showcase the diversity and quality that define the valley.

At Gilbert Cellars, guests are welcomed into a relaxed, family-owned atmosphere, now in its fifth generation. Proudly operating as a sustainable winery, Gilberts’ crafts artful, honest wines, offered in a beautiful setting to sip and savor while taking in the surrounding vineyard landscape.

Just down the road, Fortuity Cellars has quickly earned a reputation for crafting elegant, small-lot wines that deliver in both quality and value. The tasting experience feels personal and unpretentious, making it a favorite among visitors seeking thoughtfully made wines and genuine connection.

For those seeking a modern tasting experience, Freehand Cellars delivers. The property is situated on slopes that provide panoramic views of the entire Yakima Valley and Mt. Adams.  The winery combines contemporary design with a welcoming atmosphere and a portfolio of wines crafted from some of Washington’s finest vineyards.

A short drive further to Benton City, set on Red Mountain is Terra Blanca Winery, a Tuscan inspired estate offering some of the most spectacular views in Yakima Valley. The scenic architecture and design provide a beautiful location to host events, grab a bite to eat, or simply enjoy tastings while overlooking rolling vineyards.

Also located on Red Mountain, Hedges Family Estate blends exceptional winemaking with a strong commitment to sustainable and biodynamic farming. The winery’s distinctive château-inspired tasting room transports visitors to Europe while showcasing wines that reflect the unique character of the region’s celebrated terroir.

Together, these wineries capture the spirit of Yakima Valley—where passionate winemakers, world-class vineyards, and warm hospitality create an experience that lingers long after the last glass is poured.

CONTINUED >

WHERE TO EAT

Yakima Valley’s culinary scene is as vibrant as its wine country landscape, offering everything from award-winning tamales to elevated farm-to-table dining. Rooted in the region’s rich agricultural heritage, local chefs have access to an abundance of fresh ingredients, creating memorable meals that reflect the flavors of the valley.

A visit to Yakima isn’t complete without a stop at Los Hernandez Tamales. This beloved family-owned eatery has earned national recognition for its handcrafted tamales, including the famous asparagus tamale made with locally grown produce. Simple, authentic, and packed with flavor, it’s a must-visit destination for food lovers.

For a refined dining experience, Cowiche Canyon Kitchen showcases the best of the Yakima Valley through seasonal menus and thoughtfully sourced ingredients. The modern design and atmosphere pairs beautifully with dishes that celebrate the region’s farms, orchards, and vineyards.  The WaterFire Restaurant & Bar also offers one of the area’s most high-end dining experiences. Known for its contemporary American cuisine, their Executive Chef Derrin Davis curates locally inspired flavors, making it an ideal destination and setting for a leisurely lunch or romantic dinner.

Pizza lovers will find plenty to enjoy at Hoptown Pizza , a local favorite serving handcrafted pies loaded with fresh ingredients. The relaxed atmosphere and creative menu make it a popular gathering place for families, friends, and visitors exploring the valley.

For brunch or a midday break, 12th Ave Café offers classic comfort food with a local touch. Known for generous portions and friendly service, the café has become a community staple and a favorite stop for both residents and travelers.  For a memorable cocktail experience, be sure to order their famous Monstrous Mary.  Another noteworthy brunch spot is Bliss & Bubbles.  Creative breakfast dishes and mimosa flights in a stylish atmosphere make it a popular place to gather with friends.

WHERE TO STAY

For a memorable stay in Yakima Valley, Hotel Maison and Freehand Cellars’ Airbnb offer two distinct experiences. Located in the heart of downtown Yakima, Hotel Maison

blends historic charm with boutique luxury, placing guests steps from restaurants, shops, and tasting rooms. For a more immersive wine country escape, Freehand Cellars Airbnb offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by vineyards and scenic valley views, creating the perfect home base for exploring the region’s wineries, farms, and outdoor beauty.

FUN ACTIVITIES

Beyond its wineries and restaurants, there are a variety of activities for visitors to explore a deeper connection to the people, history, and agricultural traditions that shape the Yakima Valley region. From museums to farm tours, these experiences provide a fascinating glimpse into the valley’s rich heritage.

Begin at the Yakama Nation Cultural Center and Museum , where exhibits share the history, traditions, and enduring legacy of the Yakama people. Through artifacts, storytelling, and educational displays, visitors gain a meaningful understanding of the Indigenous culture that has shaped the region for generations.

History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the Yakima Valley Museum, where exhibits trace the area’s evolution from its agricultural beginnings to the vibrant community it is today. From pioneer history to regional industry and culture, the museum provides valuable insight into the forces that shaped the valley.

For a taste of one of Yakima’s most beloved local products, a Chukar Cherries tour is a must. Known throughout the Pacific Northwest for their chocolate-covered cherries and specialty foods, Chukar showcases the journey from orchard to finished product while celebrating the valley’s thriving fruit industry.

At Tieton Farm & Creamery, visitors can experience agriculture firsthand. Farm tours offer an up-close look at sustainable farming practices, artisan cheesemaking, and the connection between the land and the products that make Yakima Valley a culinary destination. The experience is both educational and delicious.

No visit is complete without strolling through the Downtown Yakima Farmers Market. Overflowing with seasonal produce, flowers, baked goods, artisan products, and local specialties, the market captures the spirit of the region’s agricultural abundance while connecting visitors directly with the farmers and makers behind it.

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TREY & KATIE KENNEDY

ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE

Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.

Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.

Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.

ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK

JANIE

“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”

Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.

After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”

The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.

FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY

Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.

Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.

From Local Roots to a National Stage

On any given afternoon at Payam Music, a student might be playing a pop song, a movie theme, or a melody they helped write themselves. Students seem excited, engaged, and ready to learn - a little unexpected for a piano school. They are learning technique, reading notes, music theory, rhythm, and discipline, but the first goal is simple: be excited to sit at the piano.

That idea grew out of founder Payam Khastkhodaei’s own experience.

Payam was three when his mother first sat him at the piano and six when he began formal classical lessons. He learned the traditional way, with sheet music, structure, repetition, and the slow climb through levels. It was the kind of piano education many families still recognize: serious and often sluggish. Over time, the system meant to build his musicianship began to drain his connection to the instrument.

Like many students, Payam eventually quit lessons. However, he did not quit piano.  What kept him playing was composition. At eleven, he wrote a piece for his newborn sister and won his first competition with it. The lesson stayed with him. Music meant more when he could shape it, personalize it, and make it his own.

Years later, while studying at the University of Washington, Payam began experimenting with the alphanumeric notation system that would become the foundation of the Payam Method. Around 2009, he started teaching a small group of students out of his parents’ basement in Bothell. Families responded quickly. The lessons were structured and challenging, yet they felt more joyful than the rigid model many parents remembered from their own childhood. In 2017, Payam opened his first school in Bothell.

The Payam Method begins with a belief that traditional piano education often makes the hardest part come first. Payam compares music to language: children learn to speak before they read and write. In the same way, the Payam Method begins with ABCs and 123s instead of traditional sheet music, giving beginners a way to understand the keyboard, spot patterns, and play songs they know from the first lesson.

“Some of the strongest proof of the method’s local impact is now standing at the front of the classroom. Several Payam Music teachers are former students who grew up through the program and returned to teach it.”

Sheet music remains a major part of the program. Students meet it within the first few levels, with Payam notation mapped alongside it. By the mid-intermediate stage, they are reading traditional sheet music fully. At that point, they already have rhythm, confidence, pattern recognition, and musical fluency - and this changes the feel of a lesson entirely. Students are not decoding one note after another in isolation. They learn to recognize righthand patterns, left-hand progressions, and the larger structure of a song. Lessons are personalized around each student’s pace and taste, whether that means pop, classical, film music, original composition, or piano-band experiences that help students build confidence and community. Practice still matters. Weekly lessons work best when students play consistently between sessions. Payam Music tries to make that practice feel worth doing. Students often call it “fun-work” because they are working on music they actually want to play.

Composition is one of the school’s signature features. Students learn to write songs as well as perform music by other composers. For advanced students, that creative path can lead to mentorship opportunities connected to composer Hans Zimmer’s studio and his Oscar-winning collective, Bleeding Fingers Music.

The results are hard to ignore, especially in Washington. Payam Music students began competing in the PTA Reflections program in 2018. They earned state recognition, then won their first national medal about two years later. In the 2024 to 2025 season, students earned 15 district placements, won all five first-place spots in Washington, and took four of the 14 national medals, including the No. 1 national winner in 2025.

The school also points to faster long-term progress. Payam Music says students can reach diploma level, described as the

“black belt” of piano, in about four years compared with roughly 12 years nationally. It also reports that far more students continue beyond their first year than with traditional lessons.

Some of the strongest proof of the method’s local impact is now standing at the front of the classroom. Several Payam Music teachers are former students who grew up through the program and returned to teach it. Benyamin Boujari, Director of the Bellevue and new Redmond schools, was one of Payam’s first students. Local students becoming local teachers has become part of the school’s identity.

Expansion began with Bellevue in 2024, followed by the first California school in Santa Monica in 2025. Payam Music has since grown into Southern California, the San Francisco Bay Area, Bethesda, Maryland, near Washington, D.C., and Great Neck on Long Island in New York.

National growth is led by CEO Hadi Partovi, co-founder of Code.org, who became involved after his own son took lessons. Payam Music is also backed by musicians and business leaders such as Hans Zimmer and Mark Cuban.

Even as the school expands, Payam remains rooted in Washington. As Chief Academic Officer, he leads curriculum development, oversees teacher training, and protects the student experience across every location. Each teacher is rigorously trained in the Payam Method, and each school is designed to carry the same spirit as the first classrooms in the Pacific Northwest: positive, supportive, rigorous, and fun.

For a school that began in a Bothell basement, the growth is remarkable. The heart of the work still feels local. A child sits at the piano. A teacher helps them find a song they love. Before the lesson is over, music feels possible.