In 2021, the “A Piano for the Music High School” campaign was launched by the Jazz Updates Association in collaboration with the musical instruments store Soundcreation. The goal was to raise funds to donate a high-quality piano to the ”Ion Vidu” Art High School in Timișoara. Funds were primarily gathered through ticket sales for a concert performed by jazz pianist Lucian Ban (based in New York) along with artists Louis Sclavis and Ralph Alessi. Additional support came from the Litens company, which helped complete the funding.

Elena Popa represented the school in coordinating the campaign, which resulted in the music classroom being equipped with a professional-grade instrument. This addition has had a significant positive impact on both students and teachers in Room 12. The presence of two pianos has expanded possibilities for the music program: Elena Popa, along with her colleague Ramona Crina, held a two-piano recital—a previously unattainable feat. Furthermore, students have been able to explore two-piano repertoires and perform orchestral concertos, enriching their educational experience and performance capabilities.

“Jazz Updates Association and Soundcreation initiated a fundraising campaign”