Mr. Jeff Sandberg — Director of Music

Mr. Jeff Sandberg is the Director of Music at Orchard Middle School, where he directs the school's band, choir, and mariachi programs. Now in his 21st year in education, Mr. Sandberg has called the Wenatchee Valley home since 2004. He began his career as a full-time substitute teacher before joining the Eastmont School District at Clovis Point Intermediate School in 2007. In 2016, he joined the Wenatchee School District and Orchard Middle School.

Mr. Sandberg earned his Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Central Washington University in 2004 and completed his elementary education certification through Heritage University in 2006. In 2013, he earned his Master of Music in Wind Band Conducting through the American Band College of Sam Houston State University.

As an educator and conductor, Mr. Sandberg has served as a clinician and guest conductor for ensembles and events throughout the region, including honor bands, mass bands, beginning band festivals, and regional large-group contests. His work in education has been recognized with the Douglas County Excellence in Education Award from the North Central Educational Service District in 2014 and the Wenatchee World's Best Teacher award in 2024.

Mr. Sandberg is also an active performer throughout the Pacific Northwest. Primarily a saxophonist, he has appeared as a guest soloist and sideman in numerous concerts and recordings and is proficient on a wide variety of band, orchestral, and contemporary instruments. After 17 years performing with the Holiday Spice Orchestra, he is now in his third year as the ensemble's principal conductor. He also hosts and performs at a monthly community jam session at Watercore in Wenatchee on the first Saturday of each month from 6:00–8:00 p.m.—and has occasionally been known to put on a polka outfit and make some music in Leavenworth.

Mr. Sandberg especially enjoys working with middle school students because he recognizes what an important transition these years represent. The journey from elementary school toward high school can be exciting, challenging, and formative. Through music, he strives to help students develop confidence, independence, responsibility, and a sense of belonging while preparing them for success in high school and beyond.

Mr. Sandberg lives in Wenatchee with his wife and two sons. When he's not teaching, conducting, or performing, you might also find him competing in the American Cornhole League.