Orchestra Testimonials

"Orchestra has been a safe place for me for all three years at Castillero. Mr. Krijnen is the most amazing and wonderful teacher that anyone could ever ask for, and I am so glad I got to have him as my teacher. He makes us enjoy orchestra and music, and he makes us feel happy and comfortable being there."

- Anshi, class of 2024

"I want to thank Mr. K so much. Orchestra has meant so much to me over the years. I play cello to 'get away from life if stuff gets too stressful.' Mr. K is such a big inspiration to me. He is such an amazing teacher, mentor, and therapist (for some of us😊) Thank you!"

- Taylor, class of 2024

"To me, orchestra wasn’t just a class – it was a community where I found friendship, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. Under Mr. Krijnen's guidance, I learned that music is so much more than notes on a page - it's a language that speaks directly to the heart and an expression of emotions that words can't describe. His unwavering dedication, patience, and support gave me an unforgettable symphony of middle school memories, and I'm eternally grateful."

- Serina, class of 2024

"The experience my daughter has had with Mr. K and his orchestra class are above any expectations we ever had. His love for the kids, for the instruments, and his passion has brought so much joy to our lives. The way my daughter appreciates music, her desire to play the viola, and all the time she spends playing is a life gift. It is amazing how the kids respond to him, how quickly they learn, and the amount of progress they make in such a small period of time. Orchestra is the highlight of her middle school adventure. Mr. K has a great sense of humor and always has positive words for the kids and the community. I wish I was in middle school just to have him as my teacher."

- Tatiana, class of 2024 parent

"Choosing orchestra as my elective was the best thing I've ever done. Not only did it introduce me to music, but it impacted my life greatly. Mr. Krijnen is the most enjoyable teacher ever. He is an amazing teacher, dad, and therapist. We can talk to him at anytime about things, and he will understand us every time. Mr. Krijnen has been the best role model. Never take Mr. Krijnen for granted.

- Mary, class of 2024

"All of the concerts were really amazing and fun. There were many reason why concerto was amazing, but the most fun part was that we were able to talk and do stuff after the concerts. I also really liked 00 period, which was really fun and challenging because it was too early."

- Yutak, class of 2024

"Orchestra had been the best part of middle school - I only go to school to get better at orchestra. The cello has been a great part of my life, and I cannot imagine middle school not playing the cello. Mr. Krijnen is the best teacher ever - I learned so much about playing an instrument, and even learned about real life skills too."

- Fiona, class of 2025

"Mr. K has changed my entire perspective of what I thought a good learning environment/classroom would be like. Over the course of just one year, Mr. K has inspired me to work harder and achieve goals that I never thought I could. His positive outlook on teaching and his perspective about what someone could accomplish has stayed with me the entire year. He has not only impacted my life in terms of my mental well-being around school and my general happiness around music, but also impacted the lives of so many of my classmates. While Mr. K pressured us to do our very best, he never made us feel uncomfortable when it came to musical repertoire or concerts, and he always taught us with encouraging suggestions and helpful, constructive criticism. Not only is he a teacher, he also is a mentor and someone I look up to immensely. Mr. K made the entire class strive to be the very best they could be. I have never had a teacher as amazing and wonderful as Mr. K. in my entire life! Although Mr. K is incredibly busy, he always makes sure that everyone is heard and that they have enough resources and time for music. I am really glad that I will continue to have Mr. K as my teacher next year."

- Merryn, class of 2025

"My son was so excited to join Castillero Orchestra because it was taught by Mr. Krijnen. That was the one thing he was sure of when entering middle school. The first few months were tough for him as he adjusted to middle school. The only thing that he never complained about was Orchestra, and Mr. Krijnen did a wonderful job keeping him motivated and pushing him to be better. Mr. Krijnen is a friend, philosopher, and a guide to my son. Playing his instrument is a big stressbuster for my son, and he made some really good friends through the Orchestra program. The Disneyland trip was a memorable experience! By the end of his first year at middle school, my son is not only thriving but also finally started to enjoy school. This is all thanks to Mr. Krijnen and the Orchestra program keeping him motivated."

- Sayanee, class of 2026 parent