Today we’d like to introduce you to Valerie Marie Alonso.
Hi Valerie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My name is Valerie Marie, and I am a bilingual singer-songwriter from Miami, Florida. My love for music began at a young age. Music was always a very important aspect of my household. My mother was a singer in Cuba, and my father learned how to play piano from my grandmother. So every time I saw my mother sing and my father plays the piano, I knew I wanted the talent they had. I am so grateful that they were more than happy to put me in classes.
As a result, I began to play piano and sing my heart out every day. Over the years, I improved and started performing in talent shows and gigs around my hometown. The crowds started small as I performed in restaurants and venues, but eventually, I began to perform in crowds of hundreds of people. The largest crowd was when I performed the national anthem for the Marlins game in Miami. There were thousands of people there, and it was so inspiring. After that, I knew I wanted to perform in front of more and more people.
When I was 16, I was announced as one of the Pop Vocal winners for the 2021 National YoungArts Competition. This was a nationwide competition for high school students with artistic talents. I also participated in the 2023 National YoungArts Competition, and I was named one of the winners of the Pop Vocal category in the nation. I had won something more significant than I had ever imagined, so I set my eyes on something bigger. I was scouted by a successful producer and was flown to LA to participate in American Idol’s 20th season.
When I stepped into the audition room, I walked out with a golden ticket and a smile. Although I didn’t make it past the Top 24, it was an enlightening experience I will always remember. I have released two originals, Mi Amor and Ghost, which you can listen to on all streaming platforms. In addition, I will be releasing another song, along with a music video in the coming months, called “I’m Sorry.” I cannot wait for it to release, as it is a mix of pop music and Latin feels.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I participated in American Idol’s Season 20 and made it to the cutoff of Top 24, however, I was not aired. I did feel discouraged for a while after, but it was a wonderful experience while I was there. I was very grateful to have made it that far out of hundreds of thousands of auditions. I learned so much and made so many friends.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My name is Valerie Marie, and I am a bilingual singer-songwriter from Miami, Florida. I write original music and perform the covers of my favorite songs. I am a 2021 and 2023 National YoungArts nationwide Pop vocal winner. I have released two originals, Mi Amor and Ghost, which you can listen to on all streaming platforms.
In addition, I will be releasing another song, along with a music video in the coming months, called “I’m Sorry.” I cannot wait for it to release, as it is a mix of pop music and Latin feels. My favorite thing to do with my original music is to incorporate elements of my culture and its music with pop sounds, which can be heard in my previous releases.
Who else deserves credit for your story?
Music was always a very important aspect of my household. My mother was a singer in Cuba, and my father learned how to play piano from my grandmother. So every time I saw my mother sing and my father plays the piano, I knew I wanted the talent they had. I am so grateful they were happy to put me in classes.
As a result, I began to play piano and sing my heart out every day. My parents have always been my number 1 supporter, and I will forever be grateful. My first piano and vocal teacher was Sonia from McCormack Music Academy. She was so helpful and patient throughout my first years of learning.
My current vocal teacher, Judy Buendia, has been coaching me for almost 4 years now. She has been extremely helpful in improving my vocal technique and stage presence. My current music teacher at school, Dr. Brian Wuttke (from TERRA Environmental Research Institute), has been my teacher for 4 years as well and has always been very supportive and helpful throughout my musical journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.valeriemariemusic.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valeriemariemusic/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTQItwZaqJLERe6GMTo2OcA
Image Credits
Reinier Rivero
