The original vision of the Foothills Philharmonic Society included the desire to start an orchestra. The word was spread, local musicians registered, and excitement continued to build, until the Orchestra began to take form under the guidance of Terry Lee, in the Fall of 2016. In the fall of 2024, Sarah McLean took over as Musical Director of the Orchestra.

The first performances of the Foothills Philharmonic Orchestra took place in June of 2017 at the High River and Okotoks United Churches. This 'pre-season' featured the Orchestra performing in several orchestral ensembles, performing a wider variety of classic works, from Mozart to Vivaldi and much more, as well as featuring several local guest artists.

The Orchestra has continued to expand and grow every season, featuring over 20 musicians this past season, and performing to sold-out crowds in Okotoks and High River. We are extremely excited for the future of the Orchestra, and hope you will join us as a performer or a concert enthusiast!