A Beautiful Night of Music: Salisbury Symphony Performs Handel’s Messiah

Last night, my wife and I had the chance to slow down, step out of the whirlwind of holiday weather coverage, and enjoy something truly special right here in Rowan County—the Salisbury Symphony’s performance of Handel’s Messiah at St. John’s Lutheran Church.

From the moment the first notes of the Sinfony filled the sanctuary, it was clear we were in for an evening of extraordinary musicianship. Conductor Daniel Wiley led the orchestra, soloists, and chorus with a steady hand and expressive energy that brought Handel’s 1741 masterpiece to life in a way that felt timeless and intimate.

This wasn’t just a performance—it was an experience.

The Symphony That Rowan County Built

The Salisbury Symphony has a deep, rich history in our community dating back nearly 60 years. What began in the 1960s as a dream to create a resident orchestra has grown into a cultural cornerstone for Salisbury and the greater Piedmont region. Their commitment to artistry, education, and accessibility is a big reason why magical evenings like last night are possible.

The musicians, representing violinists, cellists, brass, woodwinds, timpani, and more, brought a polished and passionate sound to every movement. The chorus delivered powerful, resonant clarity—especially during “For Unto Us a Child Is Born” and the iconic “Hallelujah” chorus, which filled the room with the kind of joy that can only come from live music shared among neighbors.

The soloists shone as well: soaring soprano lines, warm alto phrasing, bold tenor passages, and stirring baritone moments added depth and character to the story Messiah tells from prophecy to resurrection.

A Rowan County Treasure Worth Celebrating

St. John’s Lutheran Church provided the perfect backdrop—a sanctuary full of warmth, acoustics that carried every note, and a community gathered together in the spirit of the season. It’s the sort of setting that reminds you why the arts matter and why supporting local performers is so important.

My wife and I left the concert talking about our favorite movements, the emotional moments, and what a privilege it is to have an orchestra of this caliber right here at home.

“Steve, Why Are You Posting About the Symphony?”

Good question—and an easy answer.

While Rowan County Weather is, of course, all about keeping you informed and prepared, I’m also a big believer in celebrating the best of our community. That includes our local musicians, theater groups, students, and artists who pour their hearts into their craft.

Great performances deserve to be shared.
Great local talent deserves to be spotlighted.
And a strong community is about more than weather—it’s about the people, the arts, and moments like these that bring us together.

So when I see something worth experiencing, I’ll always pass it along.

A Wonderful Start to the Season

Handel’s Messiah was the perfect kickoff to the holiday season—uplifting, reflective, and beautifully performed. If you’ve never attended a Salisbury Symphony event, I encourage you to check them out. Their work enriches our community in ways that go far beyond the stage.

And after a busy week of forecasts, alerts, and winter weather conversations… it was nice to let the music tell the story for a change.