Welcome to the Fossil Ridge High School Orchestra Program and the Fossil Ridge High School Music Theory Program! Whether you are here as a student, a parent, or a curious visitor, I'm glad you stopped by and am sure there is a place in orchestra and music theory for YOU! Fossil Ridge Orchestra is where student success meets a safe place! Relationship drives all of our work. Student connections, awareness of the life-changing power of music, and having lots of fun are all at the core of what we do. Passion, not perfection. Friendships, not fiefdoms. Hardwork. Teamwork. These are what we are all about in FRHS Orchestra. If you're interested in the Music Theory Program, we offer both a full-year rigorous AP Music Theory class as well as a semester-long Music Theory & Composition class. Many students end up taking both courses with me during their high school careers.

A little about me: Born in Baltimore, my earliest musical memories were from my mom, an accomplished string bass player, acoustical guitar player, and an accordian player. Dad played the radio. Mom's love for music fell naturally to me, and I could see its power early on. I began my first instrumental lessons in Baltimore City Public Schools in 7th grade, quickly progressing into acceptance at the Baltimore School for the Arts, a comprehensive 9-12 Arts high school. I attended Oberlin Conservatory where I received my Bachelor's Degree in Music (majoring in Music Education). Following this study, I attended Colorado State University, receiving my Masters Degree in Music (majoring in Instrumental Conducting). I am pursuing my Doctor of Arts degree in Music Education with a secondary emphasis in Statistics and Research Methods from the University of Northern Colorado. The 2021-2022 school year represents my 17th year at Fossil Ridge. I have seen lots of changes in these 17 years, but my steadfast commitment to the students and parents of our great community and to upholding the highest standards of musical performance and integrity has not wavered. I conduct two community orchestras outside of Fossil (The Loveland Orchestra and the Pikes Peak Philharmonic)...when I'm not otherwise on a pond, lake, or river fishing! :)

Please feel free to contact me with any questions at lsilvest@psdschools.org. I look forward to working with you! Go Sabercats!