About this Artist

YOLA at Torres | Age 12 

Hi! My name is Alondra Esmeralda Herrera Lopez, and I’m in fifth grade. I play violin at YOLA at Torres—this is my second year—and I am so proud of how far I’ve come! I am really proud of my Mexican heritage. Getting to sing in Spanish means a lot to me. It connects me to where I come from and reminds me that my culture is something beautiful to share with the world. One of my favorite things about playing music is getting to perform. I love dressing up, stepping out onstage, and feeling the excitement of the audience watching. It’s one of the best feelings in the world to be able to express myself through my voice. I’ve had the chance to perform at the Gracias Gustavo Block Party, at the LA County Fair, and at concerts at YOLA at Torres, and those are memories I will never forget. I’m from East Los Angeles and YOLA at Torres is my home. I am so grateful for this place because it’s not just about music, it’s a safe space where the teachers and staff really care about me, not just as a musician but as a person. They push me to grow, and they always make me feel like I belong. I’m performing for my community, for my heritage, and for every kid who’s ever been told their dreams are too big. Mine aren’t. They’re just getting started.