"What I like about the YLJC is that it gives real life Jazz experiences like going to gigs and getting paid.  I also like that you get to have interactions with people who like the same genres of music.  YLJC also provides great teachers and professional musicians to teach their students more about jazz. They also provide great concert experiences, my favorite is the Bayside Summer Nights concerts where we get VIP seating to watch professional musicians, I'm thankful for being part of this organization and being blessed with a new horn." 

“When I use phrases like ‘I’m digging these cats,’ my non-jazz friends look at me, and say: ‘What are you talking about?’ It’s neat how this music has affected my way of being.”

"I am extremely grateful to have learned a tremendous amount under the tutelage of Gilbert Castellanos and Rob Thorsen and everyone at YLJC.  Forming connections with musicians and peers that share the same passion for the music as I do has been great... I hope to stay involved in the program in the future."

"I joined the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory in the fall of my Sophomore year of high school with virtually no experience in jazz. However, with the support and guidance of the conservatory, I have not only become a better vocalist and improviser, but also a stronger leader and more well rounded musician. Some of my favorite memories of my high school years are performing at Panama 66, the Embarcadero, and Symphony Hall with my Young Lions combos and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to share these experiences with everyone in the conservatory."

" Gilbert Castellanos and everone at YLJC are my jazz family. The best times of my life have been with them."