An underappreciated cultural gem in this community is the annual visit by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra as part of the Franklin-Southampton Concert Association series.

The orchestra, under the direction of Associate Conductor Matt Kraemer, will perform at 8 p.m. Saturday at Southampton High School in Courtland.

Thanks to the generosity of the Camp Foundations, the concert is free and open to anyone, including non-members of the Concert Association.

It is an unusual opportunity for local citizens to hear the Virginia Symphony live. But for the Concert Association’s commitment to bring the orchestra here, locals would have to travel to Norfolk, Richmond, Newport News or Williamsburg — and pay handsomely for tickets — in order to experience the symphony.

A vibrant arts scene is an important contributor to a community’s quality of life. We’re grateful to have an active concert association that brings quality music from many genres to our small community.

We hope the community will show its appreciation with a large turnout Saturday night in Courtland.