Have Dreams? Say Them Out Loud!
by Janiza Melendez
Belinda Cervantes
The GirlSpeak crew had a moment to sit down with two members of one of our community's favorite bands, the Luna Blues Machine. They came into the Young Chicago Authors space for a visit, shared some of their songs with us, and talked about what it's like to be young female artists. Martiza and Belinda are sisters who collaborate as musicians and actresses (most recently and regularly with the powerhouse Latina ensemble Teatro Luna). They are active participants in the Chicago Latina/o art community. Our discussion gave us a lot of insight into the options available to us as young writers.
Q: Where were you both born and raised?
A: Maritza was born and raised in Chicago. Belinda was born in McAllen, Texas but raised in Chicago.
Q: How did you start playing the instruments you play now?
A: There was always a guitar in the house when we grew up--our dad played it. He taught Maritza some chords, but she basically taught herself and began writing songs in college. Belinda played keyboard by ear as a child but was given a mandolin as a birthday present some years ago and taught herself how to play it.
Q: How is it working together as sisters?
A: It's wonderful working together as sisters. There is a huge amount of love and respect between us. We know we're always there for each other and are constantly learning from one another.
Q: Are their any problems you've faced being an artist?
Maritza Cervantes
A: Problems we've faced as artists...as artists, we don't make LOTS of money for our art, so we constantly have to hustle to find the next acting job, theatre role, gig for the band, etc. to pay the bills. On top of that we also work as educators, so juggling everything can be daunting, but we love what we do and are always working hard to achieve our goals.
Q: What advice would you give any young women aspiring to work in the art industry?
A: The advice we would give to any young women is to keep at it. Make goals for yourself, WRITE THEM DOWN and look at them daily! Also, go out and meet your fellow artists. Networking is key in Chicago. The artists' community is smaller than you think. You'll find out how "word of mouth" will work for you!
The Luna Blues Machine is currently recording their first full-length studio album. You can hear and find out more about them at www.myspace.com/thelunabluesmachine Support Independent Music!