Former Augusta resident Steve Morse was 10 when he finally convinced his parents to let him play something other than the clarinet. He eventually would become one of the world's best-known guitarists; named "Best Overall Guitarist" five times in Guitar Player magazines' readers poll. He not only played and toured with his groups Dixie Grit (formed in Augusta with bass player Andy West), Dixie Dregs (formed at the University of Miami and later shortened to The Dregs) and The Steve Morse Band, but also with the bands Kansas and Deep Purple.

He had established his independence while a student at the Academy of Richmond County when he was suspended for refusing to cut his long hair.

Mr. Morse was born in Ohio, but was raised in Michigan and in Augusta. It was in Augusta that he saw classical guitarist Juan Mercadal and was inspired to become a fully-rounded guitarist.