Congrats To The Class Of 2025! 🎓
- info@yljc.org
- May 23
- 12 min read
Updated: Jun 2
Cheers to the Class of 2025! You did it! 🎓🎉
From your first notes to final performances, the growth we've witnessed has been nothing short of inspiring. Your commitment to your craft, your curiosity, and the energy you’ve brought to YLJC have left a lasting mark. As you step into this next chapter, take the music—and the mindset—with you. We can’t wait to see how you continue to shape the world with your talent, heart, and voice. We're proud beyond words. Keep swinging! 👏🎶
Aiden Afshar — Guitar
I will be graduating from Canyon Crest Academy to study civil engineering at Mira Costa College. I intend to keep doing music related things as much as I can and hopefully get famous enough to not need my degree!
Young Lions has given me many things I am grateful for, but two stick out to me. First were the performance opportunities. We played some really fun shows. Second was the push to get better. I feel I improved a lot over my couple of years in Young Lions.
Henry Aufmann — Trumpet
My name is Henry Aufmann and I am graduating from Westview High School, and I will be pursuing Jazz Studies at San Diego State University.
Young Lions has been an incredible program for me to pursue Jazz music, and has inspired me to continue to pursue it in the future. The opportunities for education that the Young Lions have provided me with are unparalleled. I would like to give thanks to Tyler Kruetel and Gilbert Castellanos for their incredible instruction, offering performance opportunities, and helping me expand my repertoire.
Anthony Bazalaki — Alto Saxophone
I'm currently graduating from the Grauer School, and I'll be heading to college at UCLA. I am accepted undeclared in the Samueli School of Engineering, and I'm hoping to declare my major in Computer Science and Engineering. I hope to pursue music by participating in UCLA's programs and events, such as their music club, as well as independently playing with friends. I have had no greater musical honor than to play with YLJC, as I have learned not only through teaching but also through human and musical connection. YLJC has truly taught me what it means to be a musician, and that is to play with your heart no matter the circumstance. Even though most of my time will be spent engaging in engineering activities, I will look back at Young Lions knowing it has molded me into the musician I am, and I am sincerely grateful.
Ari Berger — Piano
I’m graduating from Canyon Crest Academy and will be attending UCLA in the fall, where I plan to study Music Composition.
Being part of the Young Lions has been an incredibly formative experience—it gave me the confidence to see myself as a musician and helped me feel at home anywhere in the world when music is playing.
Milan Bregman — Bass
I'm going to Cal Poly, majoring in Aerospace Engineering. I will continue playing music in this next chapter of my life, and hopefully find a group of other jazz playing cats.
Young Lions has been an incredible opportunity to grow and collaborate as a musician, and I'm truly grateful to be part of the community.
Audie Daly — Guitar
In the fall I plan on attending Columbia University with a major in Linguistics and a minor in Jazz Studies.
Although I’ve only participated in Young Lions these last two years, the program has changed my life in so many meaningful ways. From the mentorship I’ve received to the opportunities I’ve been provided, the community at YLJC has helped me transform my work ethic and find purpose in life. Music will always be very close to my heart, and I’m so grateful for this newfound outlook on both art and life that this program has given me.
Wyatt Drechsler — Bass
My name is Wyatt Drechsler, and I plan to pursue a career in music following my graduation from the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts. After which, I will be studying music production and engineering at Berklee College of Music. My long-term goal is to work as a studio engineer, while also continuing to perform and collaborate with other musicians.
Although my time with the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory has just been one semester, it has had a profound impact on me and has helped to shape my development as a musician during this time. It has given me very valuable experience that I will continue to use throughout my music career.
Declan Ewbank — Trumpet
My name is Declan Ewbank. I was born in Tempe, Arizona, and moved to California when I was seven years old, where I grew up in Oakland. I loved the rich and diverse culture that surrounded me, and this was where I became fascinated with jazz music and devoted myself to trumpet.
When I moved to San Diego my sophomore year, I was determined to remain connected to the musical world. I discovered Young Lions, where I found inspiration and peers who shared my passion for jazz music. I am incredibly grateful for the skills and ideas I acquired through my participation in this program Lions working with greats like Gilbert and Carter, which I used to grow my school jazz club at Grossmont, which is now a fully-fledged big band with a teacher. It’s been really inspirational seeing my friends find the same excitement from jazz and improvisation that pushed me to advocate so heavily for it in my school.
In the fall I’ll be attending UC Berkeley for Environmental Science, and I intend to continue playing music in the community. Both my major and my pursuit of music help me find connection to the people around me, and I am excited in both fields to share and exchange ideas with others and leave a positive footprint wherever I go.
Jackson Fischer — Drums
I will be graduating from San Marcos High School and am excited to continue my music education at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. My plan is to major in Music Performance and pursue a career as a studio musician. While my primary focus won't be Jazz, I definitely intend to keep it as part of my musical journey and keep improving my skills.
My two years at YLJC have been incredibly valuable. I've gained significant experience playing with a diverse range of musicians, which has taught me how to integrate effectively within a band, How to utilize certain parts of my instrument, and be a strong collaborator. I am so grateful to Gilbert Castellanos and Joshua White for their guidance and for pushing me to grow as a musician in ways I hadn't imagined.
Thank you for this wonderful opportunity, Young Lions.
Sanjana Ganguly-Fitzgerald — Piano
I will be graduating from San Diego High School and attending UC Berkeley in the fall to study Political Economy. I hope to continue practicing and engaging with music throughout my life, and hopefully join a jazz ensemble at Berkeley.
Being a part of Young Lions has been such a formative and valuable experience for me, even in my short time within this program. I have learned so much about what developing my skills in jazz entails, and how I can self-guide my practice beyond having this program to support me. The experiences of playing and performing with an ensemble have been memorable and will continue to guide me to grow my skills in music in the coming years.
Oliver Howard — Guitar
My name Is Oliver Howard. I am graduating from Helix High, and going on to major in Music at UC Santa Cruz. I intend to dedicate myself to the sonic arts, and forge for myself a career in music, whether that be performance, production, or otherwise.
My time at young lions has been spent overcoming hurdle after hurdle of musical understanding, commitment, and performance. Coming into the program with no prior jazz experience, I was placed in a strange and foreign landscape, forced to learn, adapt, and overcome challenges which have proven to be teachers only second to the instructors in the conservatory. Being a part of YLJC has given me knowledge, experience, inspiration, and a fire I would never have known. Thank you to all who keep the place running and teaching to such a powerful level.
Joey Kim-Weigandt — Piano
Hi, my name is Joey Kim-Weigandt! I’m graduating from Canyon Crest Academy in May. This fall I will be a Jazz Studies major at USC, in the Thornton School of Music, studying with pianist Josh Nelson.
I’m sad to be leaving the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory after 7 incredible years. Young Lions has completely changed the trajectory of my life, and introduced me to my greatest passion! Being a Young Lion meant being part of a special community of artists, excited to learn, collaborate, and create together. I want to say a huge thank you to Gilbert Castellanos for being a mentor, teacher, and an inspiration of a lifetime. A heartfelt thanks to Danny Green for being an amazing teacher and transforming the way I view jazz. I’m grateful for the talented musicians and friends I’ve played with throughout the years in ensembles, jam sessions, and special events. Thanks as well to Rob Thorsen, Ian Buss, Joshua White, and the rest of the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory teachers and community for their guidance and support.
Preston Lange — Drums
My name is Preston Lange, I am graduating from the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts. I will be continuing my musical career through the United States Marine Corps Band.
I am forever grateful for my time at YLJC. Over the last 6 years, I had the opportunity to learn and grow from so many artists and perform at some of the most prestigious venues in San Diego. Thank you to all my YLJC instructors and faculty who helped keep the program organized and running smoothly.
Sneha Lele — Trombone
I’m graduating from Torrey Pines High School and will be attending San Diego Mesa College to study biology. Even though I’m not majoring in music, I still plan to stay involved and join jazz groups nearby. I’ve played euphonium for about 7–8 years and picked up trombone junior year.
Being part of the Young Lions Big Band has been one of the most meaningful parts of my jazz learning experience. I am extremely grateful to Mr. Castellanos for giving me the opportunity to be a part of it. Thank you for an incredible year.
Sophia Martin — Bass
I’m graduating from Sage Creek High School and going to Berklee College of Music in September to study Music Education. I want to be a jazz history teacher and professional musician.
Olivia Mitchell — Voice
I am graduating from San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts. This fall, I will be attending the University of Michigan pursuing a B.F.A in Musical Theatre! I also plan on continuing my studies in jazz voice, gigging throughout college and beyond. As a kid who grew up listening to jazz and loving the art form, finding a place like Young Lions was a gift I wish I discovered sooner. Joining my sophomore year, I was afraid I’d feel behind the rest but Gilbert welcomed me with open arms and Young Lions quickly became my second home. I could not be more grateful to have had the opportunity to find myself as a performer and grow among fellow aspiring young artists under the guidance of experienced professionals. Thank you YLJC fam!
Elijah Narlock — Tenor Saxophone
I’m Elijah Narlock, and I’m planning to attend Grossmont Community College, where I intend to major in Christian studies. Music has always been an integral part of my life, and I plan to continue playing and sharing my passion with others.
Participating in Young Lions has been an incredible experience. It’s given me the opportunity to express myself through music when words fail me. I’ve also learned valuable lessons about playing with others and preparing myself for future musical endeavors.
Dominic Negrin — Tenor Saxophone
I’m Dominic Negrin—but most people know me as Dom. I’m graduating from both the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts and MiraCosta College, where I earned an Associate’s Degree in History and a spot on the President’s Permanent Honor Roll. This fall, I’m excited to head to New York City to study at The New School’s School of Jazz and Contemporary Music, where I’ll be pursuing a BFA in Jazz and Contemporary Music.
Being part of the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory, founded by the incredible Gilbert Castellanos, has been a huge part of my growth as a musician. It’s given me the chance to be part of a tight-knit jazz community, perform at incredible venues, and learn directly from some of the best in the field. I’m especially grateful to Gilbert Castellanos, Chaz Cabrera, and Steve Morell for their support, mentorship, and belief in me—they’ve each played a big role in shaping who I am as both an artist and a person.
Taichi Okumura — Alto Saxophone
I’m graduating from Canyon Crest Academy and heading to Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, where I plan to double major in biology and music.
Being a Young Lion has been one of the greatest opportunities of my life—it helped me explore one of my biggest passions, jazz, and opened up a whole new world for me. I found a community where I could truly express my love for music, grow as a musician, and connect with others who share the same drive.
Lorenzo Paredez — Guitar
Hi, my name is Lorenzo Paredez and I am committed to SDSU in the fall majoring in Economics. I plan on becoming a medical technician over the summer. Although I am not majoring in music, I am going to join ensembles during my time in college.
I came to the young lions as a sophomore in highschool. My background as a guitarist was anything but jazz oriented. My amazing teachers at the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory, Tonga, Rob, and Tyler, help me develop a love and deep appreciation for the art form that is Jazz music. I know that Jazz and what I have learned from the Young Lions will stick with me forever and help me to learn and progress in any field I put my mind to.
Yosuke Pilette — Alto Saxophone
My name is Yosuke Pilette, and I’m a graduating senior from University City High School. This fall, I will be attending UCSD to major in bioengineering. While I don’t plan to pursue music professionally, it will always remain an important part of my life. I look forward to continuing to play alto saxophone through jam sessions, jazz groups, and self-practice.
Being part of the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory for the past three years has shaped me both musically and personally. Through live performances, insight about music theory, and mentorship from incredible instructors such as Mr. Thorsen and Mr. Kruetel, I’ve grown tremendously as a musician. The program not only helped me refine my skills on the alto sax but also introduced me to a community of passionate, talented peers who share my love for music. I’m grateful for the experiences and friendships I’ve gained—and I know music will always be a part of who I am.
Quincy Reyes — Piano
My name is Quincy Reyes and I’m graduating from Canyon Crest Academy. I will be attending San Diego State University in the fall, pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies for piano.
Being in the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory has helped me find a place that I can call home. I’m very grateful for the mentorship I’ve received through the YLJC and the community of which I’ve found life-long friendships in. The experiences and knowledge I’ve learned from the YLJC have completely transformed the way I approach not only my instrument, but my way of living. My whole life I’ve yearned to pursue music, and the YLJC has taught me how continued dedication to my craft can make anything possible. I am forever grateful to my teachers, Gilbert Castellanos, Rob Thorsen, Carter Key, Tyler Kreutel, for their time, wisdom, and belief in me.
Isaiah Simon — Trumpet
My name is Isaiah Simon, and I’ll be graduating from San Dieguito Academy. I plan to continue to study jazz at UCLA as a Global Jazz Studies major and plan to double major in communications.
Young Lions has single-handedly been the most important piece of my high school music career. Mr. Castellanos has pushed my skills to heights that I once believed to be impossible, and for that and the endless connections and resources the conservatory has provided me, I am eternally grateful and plan to use these skills throughout my life as a musician.
Jonah Steffek — Piano
I am graduating from Steele Canyon High School after which I plan to attend the University of California Davis. There I will major in Environmental Engineering. I will also continue my jazz education through a minor in music.
Being a Young Lion has been an amazing and rewarding experience. It has taught me leadership and confidence that I did not previously possess and I am forever grateful for the opportunity. I’d like to thank director Gilbert Castellanos and the amazing instructors for a wonderful experience.
Devan Yasuhara — Bass
Devan is graduating from Mission Bay High School. He is excited to take the next step in his academic journey at the University of California, Santa Cruz, where he will be focus on Plant Biology as his undergraduate major. Music will always remain an important part of his life, and he hopes to continue his musical education in the future.
Being a Young Lion has been a transformative experience for Devan. The program has allowed him to explore the jazz genre beyond the classroom, giving him the confidence to tackle complex pieces and deepening his love for jazz.
Brayson Young — Drums
I will be attending The University of Washington with a major in Jazz Drums after my graduation from La Jolla Country Day School. I am very grateful for the experience and exposure I have been provided with over the past two years of my time at YLJC, and I look forward to seeing the future of this organization as it continues to grow. Thank you!
Alistair Zhang — Guitar
I will be graduating from Canyon Crest Academy to study civil engineering at Mira Costa College. I intend to keep doing music related things as much as I can and hopefully get famous enough to not need my degree!
Young Lions has given me many things I am grateful for, but two stick out to me. First were the performance opportunities. We played some really fun shows. Second was the push to get better. I feel I improved a lot over my couple of years in Young Lions.
Great job everyone! Hats off to Gilbert and the staff, I thoroughly enjoy Wednesday nights at Panama 66 and all the amazing young talent.