The Honor & Harmony Award will recognize one deserving recipient whose military service, sacrifice and connection to music embody the heart of this special honor.

“This award is a physical representation of the work we have devoted to bringing music, encouragement and healing to so many of our brothers and sisters in arms,” said McDonald. “Being able to recognize a true hero for their service and sacrifice is one of the greatest honors of our lives. Having the opportunity to harmonize the power of music with someone’s legacy of service can be truly life-changing.”

As veterans and women in the music industry, McDonald and Shipley share a deep commitment to honoring those who have served while demonstrating the powerful role music can play in healing, connection and hope.

The mission of Five String Studios is simple yet meaningful: “To leave a mark on the world that allows others to heal.”

Through the Honor & Harmony Award, Five Strings Studio and Sound Voyager Entertainment hope to establish a lasting tradition that celebrates courage, service and the restorative power of music. Shipley countered and said the vision is that of Hazel, I am truly honored to be a co-pilot to honor those who have served our country. We have spoken over the last few years to do something on this level, and so here we are! We are proud of the commitments we gave years ago to our respective branches.I come from generations of military so it's truly an utmost honor. We will be doing more of these. We are just getting started. McDonald stated, " We are grateful to The Josie Music Awards for allowing us to use their platform to honor someone involved in music and also a veteran of the United States Military."

Honor & Harmony Award Presentation-September 19, 2026- 6:30pm.
JMA Conference
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
Nashville, Tennessee

ABOUT FIVE STRING STUDIOS
Founded by Army veteran Hazel McDonald, Five Strings Studio is guided by the mission “to leave a mark on the world that allows others to heal.” Its work reflects a belief in music’s ability to bring comfort, create connection and transform lives.

MEDIA CONTACT
Hazel McDonald
Email: Hazelruth@fivestringstudios.com 

F more info about Five String Studios please email

writers@fivestringstudios.com

ABOUT SOUND VOYAGER ENTERTAINMENT
Led by Air Force veteran and CEO Kathryn Shipley, Sound Voyager Entertainment supports independent artists, to build a place where musicians, audiences, businesses, ministries, and communities can come together through meaningful experiences.

MEDIA CONTACT
Kathryn Shipley-CEO, Sound Voyager Entertainment
Email: howdysoundvoyager@gmail.com
Website: SoundVoyagerBooking.com