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Benefit concert brings world-renowned pianist to Panida

CHLOE COCHRAN | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 month, 3 weeks AGO
by CHLOE COCHRAN
| September 22, 2026 1:00 AM

SANDPOINT — Jim-Isaac Chua has traveled around the world to share his talent.  

From stages across Italy, France, Austria, China, Japan, Poland and more, Chua has shared his gift on the piano, mesmerizing audiences across the world. Now, his upcoming performance will take place at the Panida Theater in Sandpoint for Keys for Homes, upholding his commitment to advocate for classical music in public life through charitable donations with each of his performances.  

On Sept. 25, Chua will grace the stage for North Idahoans as part of a benefit concert for the Idaho Panhandle Habitat for Humanity nonprofit, raising funds to help families build safe, stable homes.  

"Idaho Panhandle Habitat for Humanity has never held a fundraising event of this kind. We wanted our first major event to reflect the uniqueness of our Sandpoint community, a place where the arts, education and service are deeply valued," IPHFH executive director Robin Rawlings said. "A concert felt like the perfect way to bring people together, offer something beautiful to the community and raise support for the work Habitat is doing every day." 

Rawlings said she hopes the event can shine a light on the IPHFH mission to build safe and affordable homes, in addition to their veteran clinical programs. Funds from the concert will help expand their programs and help local families in need, Rawlings said.

IPHFH, an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, seeks to put God’s love into action, bringing people together to build homes, community and hope, Habitat officials said. The nonprofit aims to build homes and make affordable improvements to homes for community members in the area.  

"We are grateful for the opportunity to bring this event to our community and look forward to a meaningful and inspiring evening," Rawlings said.  

Chua has helped raise over $25,000 for nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity, Grace Clinic, Beebe Healthcare and The Arc of the United States.  

Friday's concert, according to Chua, reflects the two ideas central to IPHFH's mission: the importance of a home and the power of people working together. Pieces performed throughout the concert aim to bridge those ideas together, with Chua performing work from Couperin and Bach, and several other composers.  

Before the recital, Chua, in collaboration with IPHFH and Lake Pend Oreille schools, will be offering a free educational concert during the day for local students.  

Tickets can be purchased at the Panida Theater. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show starts at 7 p.m. 

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