Full Circle: Enerida Mendoza

Ms. Mendoza’s Journey from Student to Preludio Leader

Preludio Ensemble leader Ms. Mendoza began her musical journey in 5th grade when she first picked up the violin and joined YAMA in its very first year. Since then, her passion for music and community has come full circle. She has been teaching at YAMA since 2022 and now leads the Preludio Ensemble.

Ms. Mendoza believes that teaching should create a sense of safety, structure, and community for each student. Her own experiences as a YAMA student continue to shape her teaching style and the meaningful relationships she builds with her students.

One of her favorite memories from her time as a YAMA student reflects the strong sense of community she now strives to foster:

 “I have really fond memories from all the trips we would go on. What made those experiences so impactful was knowing that wherever we went, each place would be filled with laughter and friends.”