Don Byers in Concert

Union County native, Don Byers, will present his annual concert at The Old Courthouse on the Square in Blairsville at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 6.

Tracing his roots in this mountain area all the way back to the native Americans, Don Byers' love of the mountains is evident in many of the songs he writes. The musical tradition in his family goes back about as far as his mountain heritage. His mentor and instructor in guitar playing was his cousin, Jr. Mauney, who is legendary for his finger-picking style of playing the guitar.

Upon completion of his studies at Union County High School, Don carried his music to Atlanta and then literally around the world. He has performed across the United States, Canada, Great Britain and Japan. Most of his travels have been as a guitar player for Tommy Jennings, who is a brother to Weylon Jennings.

Retirement has brought Don back to his beloved mountains. His performances are now limited to a few choice venues as a single act and singer/songwriter conventions.

In his act, Don performs many of his own songs taken from life and people he has known. He plays a variety of instruments, usually starting with his trusty old classical guitar and ending with a banjo.

The summer concerts at The Old Courthouse on the Square are presented by the Union County Historical Society as a public service and to keep alive the tradition of music in The Old Courthouse. There is never an admission charge. The musicians donate their time and talents. Voluntary donations to the restoration fund are always welcomed and appreciated.