ATLANTA – State Representative Lynn Smith (R-Newnan) recently hosted the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra at the Georgia State Capitol on Tuesday, July 18, 2023. This trip marks the Scottish orchestra’s fourth visit to Georgia since the signing of its sister city/sister county agreement with Newnan and Coweta County.
“It was an honor to host this exceptionally bright group of students all the way from Scotland,” said Rep. Smith. “Over the last 25 years, the orchestra’s members have played an important role in cementing the bonds of friendship among the people of Georgia and Scotland. Newnan and Coweta County are proud to be in partnership with the people of Ayr and South Ayrshire.”
During their visit, the students’ orchestra held a special performance outside on the Washington St. steps of the State Capitol. Newnan Mayor Keith Brady and officials from Governor Brian Kemp’s Office also attended the Capitol performance. Following the performance, the students participated in a special tour of the House Chamber, where Rep. Smith gave remarks on the House floor.
Rep. Smith also presented the orchestra students with a special resolution declaring July 18, 2023, as Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra Day in Georgia.
On Thursday, July 20, the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra performed at the Charles Wadsworth Auditorium in downtown Newnan in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the signing of a sister city/sister county agreement among Newnan, Ayr, Coweta County and South Ayrshire in June 1998.
Founded in August 1982, the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra encourages and develops young musicians to perform Scots fiddle in Ayrshire, which is located in southwest Scotland. The orchestra has steadily matured and now has 130 musicians from 10 to 18 years old. Former orchestra member David Moore serves as musical director, and Euan Terras serves as the orchestra’s chairman.
Photos from the Capitol visit may be found online here.
Representative Lynn Smith represents the citizens of District 70, which includes portions of Carroll and Coweta counties. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 1996 and currently serves as Chairman of the Natural Resources & Environment Committee. She also serves on the Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government and the Creative Arts & Entertainment, Reapportionment and Redistricting and Rules committees.
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