It still feels surreal to me—on May 10, 2025, I stood under the bright lights of the Young Talent Big Dreams finals and heard my name called as the winner of the Original Composition category for my song “Stepping Stones.” Here’s a look at how that journey unfolded.

Discovering the First Stone

I first scribbled the title “Stepping Stones” in my notebook last Summer in Italy. At the time, I was thinking about all the little moments that lead us forward—learning a new chord, perfecting a rhythm, even overcoming stage fright. I wanted a song that felt like each small victory stacked on the next, until you realize how far you’ve come.

One evening after guitar practice at Wynwood School of Music, I sat at the piano and started experimenting with a simple four-note motif that echoed the feeling of taking one deliberate step. The melody felt hopeful but grounded, and I knew it was the seed of something special.

Building the Path: Writing & Refining

Once I had that intro motif, the real work began. Between capoeira, ice-skating lessons, and school projects, I carved out time each day to flesh out the verses and chorus:

• Verse 1 captured the uncertainty of starting something new.
• Pre-chorus built tension with a rising harmonic pattern.
• Chorus burst open with a bright, confident melody—my musical “I did it!” moment.

I recorded rough demos on my phone and shared them with my music teacher, who suggested adding a bridge that shifted from minor to major—a musical reminder that struggles can turn into triumph. That change became the emotional heart of “Stepping Stones.”

Taking Feedback, Gaining Confidence

Even with the bridge in place, I wondered if it truly connected. So I “busked” a stripped-down version at our local library’s Saturday open-mic. My hands trembled at first, but as I played the chorus, strangers in the audience nodded along and one kind listener said, “That bridge gives me goosebumps—it feels like hope breaking through.” Their encouragement cemented my belief: this song belonged on the YTBD stage.

Facing the Finals

On the day of the finals, backstage felt like a mix of nerves and excitement. All around me were talented teens—powerful vocalists, guitar virtuosos, even a few classical composers. I reminded myself that “Stepping Stones” wasn’t about being the best, but about sharing my story.

When it was my turn, I took a deep breath, closed my eyes at the first piano note, and let the music carry me. I felt every challenge I’d overcome—every practice session, every bit of feedback, every small step—flow through each bar.

Hearing My Name & What’s Next

When they announced “Stepping Stones” as the winning composition, time seemed to slow. I looked out and saw my parents cheering, my family, wiping happy tears, and friends jumping up and down. In that moment, I realized the song had done exactly what I’d hoped: connected hearts and celebrated growth.

Winning YTBD 2025 is a milestone—but it’s also a reminder that progress is made one stone at a time. Already, I’m arranging “Stepping Stones” for a string quartet and sketching ideas for my next piece, inspired by new experiences.

If you’re reading this with a melody in your mind or words waiting to be sung, remember: every small step matters. Keep stacking those stepping stones, and you’ll be amazed at where they lead.