CUMMING—Pinecrest Academy’s Wind Symphony brought home several top prizes from the Williamsburg Worldstrides OnStage Music Festival held this spring.

The symphony earned straight superior ratings at the festival. While only 285 students attend the private Catholic high school, the Pinecrest group won second place overall.

“Our group was one of only two high school bands that received a gold rating for an overall superior,” said Len Insalaca, Pinecrest Academy band director.

Winning the award earned the symphony an invitation to any one of the nation’s five Festivals of Gold held in the most prestigious concert halls.

The festival also awarded 10 “Maestro Awards” for outstanding musicianship. Two Pinecrest students earned the accolade. Senior Carolyne Aufleger won the award for her superb euphonium solo in the performance of “Benediction.” Senior Jacinta Tran received the award for her bassoon feature in “Japanese Tune.”