Whenever I see kids with an incredible talent, I’m nothing less than amazed. Imagine this: at the age that you were going to school and playing with your friends and toys, there are some kids of the age group who are playing music, dancing, or performing at a level that is beyond that of adults who have worked or trained their whole lives. As a decidedly “average” human being, I find it fascinating, and I’m always impressed by their talent, focus, and hard work.
These kids have maturity and talent well beyond their years. They stand in front of huge audiences with a sense of professionalism and poise that seems impossible for their young age. Often, their talents and hard work extend into adulthood, and they become some of the biggest stars in the world.
Carson Peters is well on his way to becoming a lifelong talent. In this video, he is just 9-years-old, performing in front of an intimidating crowd at the Bijou Theatre in Knoxville, Tennessee. He tackles a difficult tune by a legendary musician — “Orange Blossom Special” by Johnny Cash. Carson started playing the fiddle at just 3-years-old when his parents bought him a 1/8 size fiddle. By age 4, he was playing in fiddle competitions and jamming at musical festivals.
From the moment he begins to play, the little boy dazzles the crowd with his impeccable fiddle skills. You don’t have to be a part of the music industry to recognize his talent. When he sings, he hits every note perfectly. But, for me, it his fiddle-playing that really entertains. Carson has the entire crowd in the palm of his hand as he shows off his incredible musical skills.
This was a few years ago and Carson has grown up a bit, though he is still young and his accomplishments are no less impressive. At just 12-years-old, he has played for crowds at Bristol Rhythm and Roots, Dollywood’s Bluegrass and BBQ, Asheville’s Bluegrass First Class, Song of the Mountains, Carter Family Fold, and WDVX’s World Class Bluegrass concert series. He is now a member of the bluegrass band, Iron Mountain.
Carson has also had the honor of playing on national TV as a guest on NBC’s The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Little Big Shots with Steve Harvey, as well as play with Jimmy Fortune on the floor of the Tennessee State Senate. He and his band have even played at the legendary Grand Ole Opry.
Enough with the background, I think. Now, watch the young talent in the video below!