My dear friend @cindymorganmusic and I wrote this song we’re rehearsing for former First Lady Rosalynn Carter’s 95th birthday in her hometown of Plains, GA a few years ago. Though Rosalynn is no longer with us in body, her presence through her spirit lives on through the tenderness and care we share towards one another … here in Plains and around the world. This weekend we celebrate her life, her legacy, and her love for God and people at our annual Butterfly Daze weekend here in Plains—including a lot of music with my friend and fiddler Jessica Bennett French, Presidential Descendant and vocal powerhouse @mckinleypeerage , and my good friend from @pointofgracemusic Leigh Cappillino.
Find out all the details for all the events at JimmyCarterFriends.org. #butterflydaze #rosalynncarter
Fun wedding in Albertville, Alabama @thelumpkinhouse ! I got to play with an old friend in a violin+viola duet. Loved every minute of making this memory today! Congrats Courtney and Lamar ❤️
Today I had the honor and privilege of playing Amazing Grace and America the Beautiful at the Peachtree Post Office dedication ceremony for Sergeant First Class Shawn P. McCloskey. The event was held at the Commemorative Air Force Airbase in Peachtree City—in the incredible setting of an aircraft carrier hangar, the first I’ve ever played in. It was a moving and unforgettable experience.
SFC McCloskey’s life is a testament to courage, service, and love. A native of Hudson, New York, and raised in Kennesaw and Peachtree City, Georgia, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2002 and earned the distinguished “Green Beret” as a Special Forces Engineer Sergeant in 2004. Beyond his military accomplishments, Shawn was a devoted son, brother, uncle, husband, and father. He was known for his kindness, his love of baseball, his adventurous spirit, and his deep bond with his family.
On September 16, 2009, at the age of 33, SFC McCloskey gave his life while serving in Afghanistan. His sacrifice is remembered with gratitude, and his legacy lives on through the many lives he touched. His awards and decorations—including the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and the Special Forces Tab—reflect not only his bravery but his steadfast dedication to his country.
It was a true privilege to honor his memory through music today. May we never forget the cost of freedom, and may SFC McCloskey’s life and service continue to inspire us all.
Today, in the heart of Plains, Georgia, the official stamp honoring President Jimmy Carter was unveiled before the nation. I had the profound privilege of sharing in this historic moment by performing alongside my dear friends, @andrewbgreer and Leigh from @pointofgracemusic . Surrounded by descendants of Presidents Carter, Nixon, McKinley, Cleveland, and Eisenhower, we witnessed a moving tribute to an extraordinary man whose legacy continues to inspire.
I am deeply honored to have been part of such a meaningful day—one that reminded me once again how beautifully God orchestrates our steps and weaves our lives into stories greater than our own. #plainsgeorgia #presidentjimmycarter #jimmycarter #nationalevent #georgia
Good morning, from deep down in GA 🍑 #georgia #fiddle #musician #plainsgeorgia #jimmycarter #rosalynncarter #butterflydaze #violin #gaonmymind #southern #windsor
Deep in the heart of Plains, Georgia where the peanuts grow wild! We had a great time playing for The Carter family and celebrating Rosalynn’s 96th birthday. Thanks @andrewbgreer for the invite to join the celebration!
Working on “Within a Mile of Edinburgh” and “The Flowers of Edinburgh” - A Scottish strathspey and reel paired together. Something a bit new to the hands, particularly with the bow hand incorporating quick “flicks”, which is indicative of the strathspey style. Super fun!
#scottishfiddle #scottishmusic #edinburgh #fiddle #celticmusic #celticfiddle #worldmusic #scottish #scottishstrathspey #scottishreel
✨ We ❤️ Shine! ✨Thank you @columbus_botanical_garden for inviting us to perform tonight. We had a BLAST! Thank you for creating a spectacular event for our community to enjoy!! 🎻⭐️🤩❤️
