Cletus & The Disciples Opened for Daniel Donato at The Virginian — and They Delivered

Photo Credit: Lauren Owens, Ant Braaten (@antbraaten)

On June 18th, Teton Music School's teen rock band Cletus & The Disciples took the courtyard as the opening act for acclaimed guitarist Daniel Donato—and they impressed us all.

A Real Stage. A Real Crowd. A Real Performance.

Performing at The Virginian isn't a school recital. It's one of Jackson's most beloved live music venues. The setlist of rock covers showcased what these young musicians have been building all year: tight arrangements, real chemistry, and the kind of confidence that only comes from doing the work. The crowd danced. They cheered. And even the band's teacher, Taylor Upton, joined them onstage for a song. These teens didn't play like kids. They played like a band.

Why Moments Like This Matter

There is no substitute for performing live—for feeling the energy of a crowd, for recovering when something goes sideways, for finishing a set and knowing you crushed it. That experience is rare, and it doesn't happen by accident. It happens when venues like The Virginian open their doors, and when a community shows up to cheer them on.

Thank You

To Daniel Donato for sharing his night and his audience—graciously and genuinely. To The Virginian Saloon for believing that a teen rock band belongs on a great stage, because they do. And to everyone who came out, danced, cheered, and gave—your presence made the performance. Your support makes the school.

Teton Music School exists to give every student regardless of age or experience the chance to make music, perform live, and belong to something. Nights like this are proof that it's working.

We can't wait to do it again.

Want your student on a stage like this? Learn more about rock band programs and lessons at tetonmusicschool.org.