March 16 was a special night indeed. Forsyth Home Educators showcased quite a few talented students. I am sure this amazing program was just a sampling of a much larger group. There were around 200 people in attendance. Whether performing with 'home grown' talents or years of specialized study, all were a delight to see and hear.

A special thanks to Marshall and Pattie Parker, who organized, hosted and provided the sound system support for the program. Thanks to Craig Bradley who helped make smooth transitions between performers.

The program opened with a trumpet solo of the Star Spangled Banner performed by Joseph Riley Matheson. There were two lovely vocal soloists: Kristen Spence and Detra Page.

Many talented pianists played various arrangements. Again, there were beginners and advanced students, but all were well practiced and skilled! Our keyboard artists include: Jared Bradley, Kently Page, Krista Parker, Sara Sisk, Nathan McRae, Lydia McRae, Jonathan Condon, Samantha Condon, Christine Pippins, Daniel Smith, Michelle Poppe, Justin Condon, John Walter Lovette, Nina Bonetti, Emily Morales and Amy Clithero (performers are listed as they were in the program).

There were a couple of presentations with more than one performer. Tommy Pullen and Seth Wingate acted out a skit called "Back to School, " which was written by Tommy's mom, by the way. John Mack Matheson and brother, Joseph Riley Matheson performed a guitar and trumpet duet.

Arts Evangelica dance groups -- from the Genesis program to Foundations II -- showed us their achievements. I don't know if you are familiar with this up-and-coming Christian performing arts group, but many of our homeschooled students are taking part. In fact, over half of each group is homeschooled! (I hope to get their names and feature them in May.)

Mary Cassidy Matheson, D.J. Foster, Jonathan Bradley, Billy Harless, Bryan Hall and Meghan Hall entertained the audience with various classical pieces performed on a variety of stringed instruments.

Ruth Parker provided an piano instrumental intermission. The International Bazaar was held in the lobby this same evening. Christine Pippins displayed the project from her study of the country of Mexico. Meredith Layne and Alyssa Emerson displayed their project from the study of ancient Egypt. We hope to have more families involved in this event next year!

As special thanks goes to all of the parents and families who are behind our talented performers. Daily they encourage students in their skill and practice. That is a gift of love!