Our “hometown symphony orchestra” simply outdid themselves with Sunday’s Stars Family Concert. I was blown away.

The symphony chorale and soloists performed “The Creation” with a refreshing confidence and maturity.

The Rowan County fifth-grade honors chorus — directed by Beth Yelvington and backed by the entire orchestra with John Stafford’s marvelous arrangement — has never sounded better. Each of the five high school soloists were truly amazing.

Having N.C. Poet Laureate Jaki Shelton Green narrate the “Blast Off!” story was a nice touch, adding a bit of drama to an already outstanding performance.

Many thanks to David Hagy and our talented symphony musicians for putting together such a memorable event for our students, our families and our community.

—Bill Bucher

Salisbury