Orchestra
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The FCS orchestra program started in 2009 and has grown in popularity every year since. Students in third thru eighth grade have the opportunity to choose their music concentration, focusing on either vocal instruction or orchestra. Private lessons for orchestra begin for students as early as 1st Grade. Instruments included in our orchestra classes are violin, viola, cello, and bass.
As the interest in orchestra grew, director Aimee Knight, saw the need to create a community orchestra group that offered more playing time to our students and even graduates whose high schools may not offer an orchestra program. Hence in 2015 the Foothill Christian Legacy Youth Orchestra was founded. FCLYO has since received numerous awards and honors, including the highest Gold Award at the Forum Music Festival in San Diego (2018) and acceptance to the New York Invitational Music Festival, which included performing a concert at Carnegie Hall (2019 & 2023). FCLYO has also toured to and performed in Orlando (2022), France (2024) and Nashville (2025).
FCLYO is open to intermediate and advanced string players from FCS and surrounding middle and high schools. To learn more or to audition CLICK HERE!
Read an article, featuring Ms. Knight, about what it's like Experiencing a Masterclass in Carnegie Hall!
Experiencing a Masterclass in Carnegie Hall
About the Director
Aimee Knight
Orchestra Director
aknight@foothillchristian.org
Aimee Knight is the orchestra director and studio lesson program coordinator at Foothill Christian School. She is also the founder and director of the Foothill Christian Legacy Youth Orchestra and the FCLYO Legacy Lesson Academy. Aimee received her Master of Music Education (M.M.Ed) degree from Azusa Pacific University. In addition to directing music, Aimee is actively involved at church, takes dance classes, loves figure skating, enjoys good coffee, and has four cats. Aimee believes strongly in the value of a Christ-centered education and is blessed to be able to educate and minister to children through music and worship.
About the Instructor
Dana Apolonio
Orchestra Teacher & Private Lessons
dapolonio@foothillchristian.org
Dana Apolonio is Foothill Christian School's Orchestra Assistant and Private Lessons Instructor. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Music Education and a Master’s in Business Administration from Azusa Pacific University with her teaching credential in music. Outside the classroom, Dana enjoys reading, exploring new foods and places, and serving on her church’s worship team. Dana also remains active in the local music scene, performing with various orchestras and ensembles throughout the region.