Reviving many of the beloved hits such as “Puff the Magic Dragon, If I Had a Hammer, Blowin’ in the Wind,” and a host of others, these seasoned musicians dish up a smooth blend of harmonies and 1960’s nostalgia.
Launched in 2010, their shows have attracted SRO crowds of both young and old. The group has transcribed each Peter, Paul & Mary arrangement in order to duplicate the exact sound that captured the hearts of listeners worldwide. As one fan put it, “If I close my eyes, I am transported back to 1966 and I can picture exactly where I was when I wore the grooves off my Peter, Paul & Mary albums.” Another fan says “This group will knock your sox off. They sound exactly like the originals!”
Jim Hawley has won the hearts of audiences from coast to coast and spent many years in the big time arena of popular music opening for acts such as Jimmy Buffett and Steve Miller. Following a successful career as a recording artist and national touring musician, Jim moved from Nashville, Tennessee to Traverse City six years ago with his wife, Annie, and son, Jimmy. He has built a huge following of local fans and appears regularly in numerous venues in the area. He owns and operates Independence Title Company.
Donna Wilson Probes began singing with her father at age 12. Following her love of traditional music, she was the founder of the Grand Rapids Folk Arts Center. She has performed on stages across the state of Michigan in various ensembles including Daddy Frank & Mama, The Muscat Ramblers, Better Than Nothin’ Band, and Family Reunion. She plays guitar, lap (mountain) dulcimer, mandolin, and autoharp. She combined a B.A. in Music and an M.B.A. into a multi-decade career in arts management. She has also taught music lessons, written and produced radio jingles, and done extensive studio singing. She is happily retired and loves performing the folk music she grew up on.
Lawrence “Doc” Probes started playing piano for church revivals when he was eight. His love of music lead him to Interlochen Center for the Arts, where he attended both the Camp and Academy until High School graduation. As a bassoonist, he earned his way through medical school playing in symphonies. As a strong solo vocalist, he is also highly accomplished on guitar, bouzouki, piano, and concertina. He is lead player of Irish Traditional Music and performs in Kerfunken Celtic Band as well as his own family band, Cherry Blossom Ramblers, which includes his wife, Donna. He is a Psychiatrist with Pinerest Christian Mental Health Services.