This isn’t your typical “local artist makes it big” story.
In fact, it’s almost the opposite.
Estefanía Benedicto didn’t set out to lead anything… but somehow ended up right in the middle of one of the key musical pieces linked to the Pope’s visit to Spain.
How It Happened
A call from producer Pablo Cebrián changed everything.
From there, Benedicto found herself coordinating the recording of “Alza la mirada”, a hymn built around a large, open choir made up of volunteers.
No big auditions. No polished lineup.
Just people turning up and getting involved.
Not About the Spotlight
One thing she’s clear on… this wasn’t designed around individuals.
No main star, no centre stage moment.
The whole idea was collective.
Different voices, different roles… but all blending into one message.
And whether you’re into that or not, it’s a refreshing shift from how most projects are usually done.
A Tenerife Perspective
There’s also a local layer to it.
Parts of the hymn reference migration… something that’s very real in the Canary Islands.
Lines like “for those crossing the sea in search of a home” aren’t there by accident.
They reflect what’s actually happening here.
What the Recording Was Like
The session took place in La Laguna Cathedral… and by all accounts, it was a bit chaotic at first.
Most people didn’t even know the song.
No one knew how long it would take.
But within a few hours… it came together.
Long rehearsals, no complaints, everyone pulling in the same direction.
That seems to be the part she values most.
More Than Just a Song
For Benedicto, this wasn’t really about the music.
It was about the experience… and what came out of it.
People messaging afterwards, talking about what they felt, not just what they heard.
That kind of thing.
And After the Event?
The hymn is tied to the Pope’s visit… but it’s not meant to stop there.
Her view is that it can carry on… used in smaller, personal ways rather than just big events.
Final Thought
It’s not a glossy, commercial project.
No hype, no big egos… just a lot of people coming together to create something with meaning.
Whether that resonates or not… depends on the person.
But it’s a different kind of story.