HealthyMindsPhilly interviewed BlazeBorn‘s band members after they performed at a local event. Elizabeth Melendez (15), Layla Delarosa Adrian (15), Inesanned Santiago (16), Nicolas Castillo (16), Zahir Cordero-Severino (18), Genesis Garcia Vega (15), and Daniela America Soriano Gonzalez (19) met while attending Esperanza’s AMLA Summer Music program. Although they have been playing together for just seven months, the band’s seven members feel “pretty close.”
At AMLA program, music is more than just notes and lyrics-it’s a lifeline for young people seeking connection, self-expression, and personal growth. The impact of their songwriting initiative is best told through the voices of the youth themselves.
“Music for me is a very good form of self-expression. It’s a way to release my feelings if I’m going through a lot of things at one time, and it’s a way to build community with people that you wouldn’t talk to otherwise,” shared Elizabeth. This sentiment echoes throughout the band BlazeBorn.
The program’s emphasis on collaboration and support is clear in how these young musicians describe their bond. “It helps us to play the music better together since we know how to communicate with each other so well already,” one band member explained.
For many, AMLA provided a vital support network during tough times. “They gave me something to look forward to, even though I had hard times…when you’re down and you have a group of friends and you do something like this, you look forward and it helps you to go through the day,” Genesis said.
For others, the program has been transformative socially. “Before I joined the band, I had a bit of trouble creating friends. When I joined in, it made me more able to work with other people. They gave me the strength to talk to others. Now, I have a lot of friends,” said Daniela.
The confidence and social skills gained through music-making have extended beyond the band, empowering participants in other areas of life.
Esperanza’s approach is intentional: youth are not only learning music, but also exploring themes like anti-violence, social justice, and empowerment through songwriting and performance. The program’s structure – combining workshops, collaborative songwriting, and public showcases – gives young people the tools to express themselves and advocate for positive changes in their lives and communities.
When asked if they would recommend the program, the answer was a unanimous “Yes.”
For Philadelphia’s youth, Esperanza’s songwriting program is much more than music; it’s a way to create new friendships, learn coping skills, and experience hope.
Follow the band on Instagram.
Learn more about the Esperanza AMLA Summer Music program.
Learn more about the impact of music on positive youth development and well-being.
Check out our other blogs about music and mental health:
Tango Into Community
Diversity + Music: Recipe for Mental Wellness
Grit & Determination
Dance Therapy for Trauma
Dancing for Mental Health
