Meet our Music Teachers

Mr. Jeff Yaeger (MUS-1)

Beginning Band, and Advanced Band. 

Contact: Yaeger_Jeffrey@cusdk8.org

Mr. Yaeger holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from California State University, East Bay, as well as a California Teaching Credential (music). Mr. Yaeger is the music director for the Milpitas Community Concert Band, and has been Music Director for Many shows at Lyric Theatre of San Jose and the Stanford Savoyards. He has also performed in several recording sessions at George Lucas's Skywalker Ranch. Mr. Yaeger is also the world's leading authority on the music and life of American Composer James M. Fulton (1873-1940), and an expert in the Golden Age of American Band Music. Mr. Yaeger created the New Fulton Band to record band music that has never previously been recorded. You can learn more at www.ForgottenAmericanMusic.com

This is Mr. Yaeger's 16th year at Cupertino Middle School. Music has been my passion since I started playing trumpet in my 6th grade band (tuba in middle school). My goal is to instill that same passion in all my students. 

Mr. Tony Rivera (MUS-2, MUS-3)

Blue & Gold Band, and Choir

Contact: rivera_antonio@cusdk8.org

Mr. Rivera received his Bachelor of Music in Music Education from San Jose State University. This is his second year at CMS. Prior to teaching at Cupertino Middle School, He has taught music for 15 years for various community groups and served as an assistant band director for high schools in the Bay Area. His primary instrument is the saxophone, and he has performed on woodwind instruments in a variety of groups, including the SJSU Marching Band, Santa Clara Vanguard Big Band, and multiple Portuguese Commuity bands. While he is not teaching or making music, Mr. Rivera enjoys spending time with his family and friends, watching movies, and listening to music!