Rhythms of Resilience: Empowering West Denver Youth Through Drumline
In Southwest Denver, our Youth Empowerment Drumline program is making NCA vision’s of dynamic and accessible arts programs a reality.
Program Overview The NCA Westwood Youth Empowerment Drumline program serves 138 students annually across Kepner Middle School and College View Middle and High Schools. Meeting five times a week and totaling six hours of instruction per week, this program goes beyond musical technique—it's about building confidence, discipline, teamwork, and leadership through rhythm.
With the skilled and passionate leadership of Teaching Artist Mario Moreno, students in grades 6-12 learn to perform, compose, and collaborate in drumline. The program fosters school pride, student ownership, and positive peer-to-peer mentorship in an energetic, supportive environment.
Student-Centered Impact For many students, Drumline is more than an extracurricular activity. It is a sanctuary of rhythm, connection, and joy.
"Drumline has helped me make friends and feel more confident. I used to be shy, but now I get to perform in front of the whole school and feel proud of myself." – 8th Grade Student, Kepner
"When I play, I feel powerful. It helps me focus in school and gives me something to look forward to every day." – 9th Grade Student, College View
Teacher Perspective Mr. Mario Moreno, who leads the program with passion and deep commitment, shares:
"This is about more than drumming. It’s about giving our youth a platform to be heard, to feel strong, and to succeed. When a student finds rhythm, they also find confidence, discipline, and pride in who they are. I see students transform through this program."
Funded with Heart This program is made possible in part by the Think 360 Arts: Equity in Arts Learning grant. Their generous support ensures that programs like these can reach youth who otherwise may not have access to sustained arts education.
Watch the Program in Action We invite you to take a glimpse into the joy and power of this program by watching our short program video: Watch here
Looking Ahead As we continue building cultural wealth and creative leadership among West Denver youth, NCA remains committed to strengthening our impact through community partnerships, student-centered programming, and radical inclusiveness.
We invite you to join us in amplifying youth voices through rhythm, culture, and creativity.
For more information on how to support the Westwood Youth Empowerment Drumline or to bring NCA programs to your school or community, visit www.newcottagearts.org.