The first year in Junior High School can be very intimidating for a ten year old. Esmerlin De La Cruz, the son of Dominican immigrants, has lived in The Mott Haven section of the South Bronx for most of his life. He has been raised by his mother and his admittance to MS 223 was the natural course followed by most of the students in his neighborhood. “There is a great music program in this school”, Esmerlin heard one of the other students say. “You learn how to play an instrument and you perform in many places, including Six Flags”. Always having been attracted by the drums, he quickly joined the Multicultural Music Group program and has remained a top student for the last two years. During this time, Esmerlin has learned to play the drums and several other percussion instruments, as well as how to read music and play in an orchestra setting. He has also learned a great deal about the history and culture of other nations including his own Dominican Republic. His favorite part of the program has been the opportunity to perform at several venues, especially the Six Flags festival where he won the soloist award!
Before the conclusion of his second year at MS 223, Esmerlin contacted his music teacher and expressed his interest in attending a performance arts high school. “Please speak to my mother and explain the benefits of this type of school”. His mother agreed once she was informed of the high graduation rates and excellent academic scores that most performing arts schools have. With the help of the Multicultural Music Group, 12 year old Esmerlin has found new direction and looks forward to a brighter future.
