By Ysabella Escalona
Apr 25, 2024, 10:30 AM EDT
In a city known for its vibrant arts scene, a talented young Latino is preparing to perform for the first time on the iconic stage of Radio City Music Hall, next Tuesday, May 2.
Sebastián Pérez, 15, who will be accompanied by Amy Antwi, 17, both residents of The Bronx, will be part of the annual “Garden of Dreams Talent Show.”
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. and the Garden of Dreams Foundation will host this annual talent show, giving more than 150 youth from the tri-state area the opportunity to live their dreams.
What makes this performance even more special is the story behind Pérez, who immigrated to the United States from the Dominican Republic six years ago. So the guitar became a bridge between his old and new life, helping him find a sense of belonging in a new and unknown place. He learned to play guitar by watching YouTube videos.
“At first, when I didn’t know many people and had no one to talk to, I started playing the guitar and watching videos to learn from other guitarists and their styles. Then I met more people and in fifth grade I already knew English because my friends didn’t like to speak Spanish, but whenever I can I play the guitar,” shared Sebastián, who is in tenth grade and aims to continue his education in the area of music at the University of Berkeley in California.
The collaboration between Sebastian and Amy will be a medley of songs by singer John Mayer for the Battle of the Bands of the “Garden of Dreams Talent Show”, and will be a testament to how music can unite people beyond language barriers and culture.
“It has been a good experience playing with her and seeing the other kids play their instruments,” Sebastian said. “It would be fun if we played in a band, since one day I would like to be part of one.”
Music has always been an important part of Sebastián’s life, which is why he dreams of being a musician in the future.
“I like to listen to different styles of music and I play various instruments like the drums and piano, but the guitar is my forte and that’s why I decided to audition at the Garden of Dreams talent show with the guitar,” he explained.
In detail:
What: “Garden of Dreams” Concert
When: Tuesday, May 2, 7:00 pm
Where: Radio City Music Hall (1260 6th Ave)
Information: https://gardenofdreamsfdtn.org/talentshow2024/