AMAYA FOGG

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC DIRECTOR

EMAIL: AFOGG@GUHSD.NET

Amaya Fogg is a distinguished saxophonist and educator whose passion for music education was ignited during her time as a student at Vista Murrieta High School, where she developed a love for teaching in one of the nation's top-ranked bands. Her experience in this prestigious program provided her with a robust foundation in musical training, setting the stage for a successful career in music.

Ms. Fogg holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from the University of California, Los Angeles. During her studies, she had the privilege of learning under esteemed instructor Douglas Masek and Jan Berry Baker and performing in the wind ensemble under Dr. Travis Cross, as well as in several other university ensembles, including the award-winning UCLA Marching Band. Throughout her undergraduate years, she actively volunteered for various organizations, including the Inglewood Social Justice Learning Institute and the Herb Alpert School of Music. Notably, she was elected as the first student officer of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and served as president of UCLA's National Association for Music Education for two consecutive years. Some of Ms. Fogg's notable achievements include serving as a guest lecturer in the music education department at her alma mater, performing under renowned composer and conductor Joe Hisaishi in 2019, and rehearsing with celebrated composer Frank Ticheli in 2023. She has also been presented with numerous opportunities to collaborate with other exceptional musicians in her field. 

Prior to joining the Valhalla Staff, Ms. Fogg was the Instrumental Music Director at Granite Hills High School (2023-2024), Piano and Strings Director at Horace Mann Extension School (2021-2023), and a private lessons instructor in various studios throughout Los Angeles (2019-2021).

At the core of Ms. Fogg's teaching philosophy is the belief in cultivating musicianship through performance. She is profoundly grateful for the support of her family, friends, partner, and her band dog mascot, Maeve, as she continues to influence and inspire the next generation of musicians.