Austin Tate, from Marion, Virginia, is 17 years old and plays the mandolin and sings for the band Carson Peters And Iron Mountain. He began playing music at 8 years old. His taste in music ranges from classic rock and old country to bluegrass and gospel. He has played for many local churches, nursing homes and restaurants. He has had some great opportunities to play music with some amazing bluegrass artists, including the Queen of Bluegrass, Rhonda Vincent. Off the bluegrass scene, Austin enjoys watching dirt track racing. Austin says that the most important thing to him is his relationship with God and thanks Him for his ability to play music and blessing him with a wonderful, supportive family.