Adriana Ortega first enrolled at the Los Angeles Music and Art School at the age of nine. "My first class was Choir," she recalls. Introduced to LAMusArt by her choir teacher from another class— the daughter of the then Executive Director—Adriana quickly immersed herself in all the artistic opportunities offered at the school. "I wanted to take more music and arts classes, so I joined and basically took every class LAMusArt had to offer," she says. Her two younger sisters followed suit, starting in the choir and branching out into various disciplines based on their interests.
Throughout her years at LAMusArt, Adriana explored a diverse array of classes, from choir, cello, ballet, voice, tap, art, guitar, piano, to folklorico and Camp MusArt. Reflecting on her favorites, she enthuses, "Choir was my favorite! But I also have to say that piano with Brendan was the best time, as well as guitar classes with Mrs. Risemberg. They are both so amazing, some of the kindest and most caring and patient teachers I’ve ever had."
Adriana speaks fondly of her teachers, particularly Brendan White and Bridget Risemberg. "They aren’t only great teachers, they are amazing people as well. Taking classes with them, I remember just being so happy sitting with them learning and talking, hearing everything they had to say," she reminisces. One of her favorite memories involves selecting new songs to learn with Brendan, an experience she describes as both peaceful and inspiring. "Just sitting there listening to him play not only was one of the most peaceful experiences but just made me want to learn even more! Just an inspiring experience to hear such talent!"
Among the many lessons Adriana learned, one piece of advice from Brendan stands out: "Before you play, you need to take a pause and just breathe." This simple yet profound guidance helped her manage anxiety before playing piano and appreciate the importance of taking time to create something beautiful.
Adriana credits LAMusArt with shaping her into the person she is today. "The impact of the Los Angeles Music and Art School extends far beyond classroom learning," she says. "As a student, I was given the opportunity to develop confidence and professionalism in an environment that fosters both education and personal growth." She emphasizes the critical role that institutions like LAMusArt play in nurturing compassionate, creative, and passionate individuals, especially in communities where arts education is underfunded.
Adriana's education at LAMusArt laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors. She recently graduated from the University of Southern California with a Master’s in Social Work and a Master’s in Public Health, after earning her bachelor's degree in Media Studies with a minor in Journalism from the University of California, Berkeley. Although her career path may seem divergent from the arts, Adriana believes that the skills and values she acquired at LAMusArt are invaluable. "I primarily want to go into program and policy work where I can continue to engage and be involved with the community I grew up in."
One of Adriana's proudest achievements is returning to LAMusArt as an alumna. "Being able to come back as an alumni is the most amazing feeling," she shares. "Watching the kids, especially in choir where I first started, you see the joy and happiness on their faces and it reminds me of myself. I see the joy in the students that I felt when I was a student there."
Adriana's journey comes full circle as she now works at LAMusArt, witnessing firsthand the genuine care and pride the teachers have for their students. "The environment cultivated at LAMusArt is one where students are not simply attending classes; they are actively engaged, eager, and enthusiastic about their learning journey," she observes. "I am honored to work at a place where I am among the best of the best. The kindest, most caring and giving people I know work at LAMusArt."
For anyone considering attending LAMusArt, Adriana has this to say: "The qualities I have observed at LAMusArt are not easily taught; rather, they are intrinsic to the educators and the environment they foster. The educators exemplify the highest standards of passion and dedication, transcending the typical boundaries of their profession. Their commitment to their craft and their students is inspiring."
Adriana Ortega's journey is a testament to the transformative power of arts education. From a young choir student to a dedicated professional, Adriana exemplifies the lasting impact of LAMusArt's nurturing environment, passionate educators, and the creative paths they foster.
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