Classic4U, a youth-led nonprofit chamber ensemble and Bellevue/Seattle chapter of Help On the Go, uses music to serve the community through performances at shelters, hospitals, senior living facilities and local events. Since launching less than a year ago, the student-led group has presented more than 10 concerts, making classical music accessible to audiences who may not otherwise experience live performances. Featuring flute, violin, viola and cello players, the ensemble encourages young musicians to use their talents to give back while creating meaningful connections. For its students, the experience has shown that music can be more than performance—it can bring comfort, foster connection, and strengthen a sense of community.

Founded by student musicians and guided by Director Junghee Lee and Community Outreach Advisor Bernadette Kwon, Classic4U has expanded its reach significantly. What began with performances at senior living facilities has grown into service opportunities supporting veterans, adults with disabilities, rehabilitation programs, homeless shelters, and pediatric patients across the region. “The most memorable performance for me was our concert at a veteran's shelter,” Chloe said. “Seeing the veterans smile, sing along, and genuinely enjoy the music showed me how powerful music can be in bringing comfort and connection to others.” Co-founder Olivia Park added, "“The Veterans Day performance was very memorable for me because I was able to interact with the veterans a lot. I was even able to talk to them a bit and share their experience, and it was nice to know that our music actually influenced them, and they felt nice while listening to our music.”

These experiences have helped members see music as a way to support and connect with others, not just as a performance. Caitlin Sohng said community performances also allow musicians to connect directly with local audiences and support organizations in their own neighborhoods. Co-founder Lui Shin added that these concerts place greater emphasis on meaningful human connection, giving performers an opportunity to provide comfort and encouragement through music. Several students said they joined Classic4U to give back through music. Violinist Ricky Ortega valued the opportunity to perform for people who might not otherwise hear live music, while Michelle Han said she initially joined Classic4U to earn volunteer hours, but after participating in several performances, she discovered how rewarding it was to give back to the community through music.

For founder John Yeom, service reflects the support he has received from others throughout his life. “Community service matters to me because I think everyone here wouldn't be who they are without help from other people. I have my parents, my teachers, my coaches, my friends. They all helped me out in some way.”

Not every member performs. Claudia Kim and Evan Beck contribute through outreach and social media efforts. Claudia said she joined to help promote the organization and expand its impact in the community. “I wanted to make an impact through social media and promote the community to other people,” Claudia said. “It's not an easy program, it's also very time consuming,” Evan said. “But if music is what you love, and if you are a person who finds fulfillment in serving others, I don't think there's a better opportunity for you as a high schooler than Classic4U.”

In addition to concerts, the organization partners with the Salvation Army Eastside Corps Community Center, where students volunteer through meal programs, summer camps, and youth activities. “These are amazing young people that have a heart for their community and a love for music,” said Captain Jenny Onitsuka-Adams. The group's service extends beyond performances. Members have participated in fundraising efforts supporting Mary’s Place, Bellevue LifeSpring, and the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign, helping raise more than $5,000 during a single holiday season.

Classic4U’s impact has also earned community recognition. The organization recently received a $5,000 Bellevue Community Programming Fund grant to support summer cultural performances and a $1,500 cultural support grant from the Korean Consulate in Seattle to promote Korean culture through music and community engagement. Co-founder Joshua Lee believes the group's work reflects the values of both its members and the broader West Bellevue community. “Representing West Bellevue through this work means carrying the values of our school and community and spreading it to other places,” he said. “Every performance is an opportunity to demonstrate the commitment of West Bellevue to service and community building.”

As Classic4U approaches its first anniversary, members hope to continue expanding their outreach and impact throughout the region. Founder Grace Yeom said she started Classic4U to make classical music more accessible and give students a way to use their musical talents to serve others. As she concludes, “You don’t have to be perfect to make an impact—you never know how much your performance might mean to someone else.”