Shortly Before Her Death, Dolly Parton Recorded a Heartfelt Message for Music Teachers
Dolly Parton’s voice filled a Nashville celebration on October 7, bringing an emotional moment to an evening dedicated to music educators. In a special video recorded before her death, the country music legend shared a message of gratitude and encouragement for teachers whose work helps inspire the next generation.
The tribute opened the Country Music Association (CMA) Foundation’s celebration of the 10th anniversary of its Music Teachers of Excellence programme, reminding those in attendance that Parton’s legacy extends far beyond her remarkable career as a songwriter and performer.
CMA Foundation Celebrates 10 Years of Music Teachers of Excellence
Established a decade ago, the CMA Foundation’s Music Teachers of Excellence programme recognises outstanding music educators across the United States who go above and beyond to support their students.
The Class of 2026 honoured 30 exceptional teachers from 12 states, all recognised for using music to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
The honorees were celebrated at a red-carpet event on Wednesday, October 7, following a selection process that began with applications. Each teacher received $5,000, to be divided equally between personal use and their classroom or educational programme.
According to the CMA Foundation, previous recipients have used their stipends to fund new instruments, recording equipment, sheet music, guest composers, after-school clubs and student scholarships.
The anniversary celebration took place at The Pinnacle in Nashville, Tennessee, with performances from Zac Brown, David Phelps, Sierra Hull, Carrie Manolakos, Markus King, Keith Urban, Tucker Wetmore and Preservation Hall Jazz Band.
But before the musical performances began, the audience received an unexpected gift: a message from Dolly Parton.
Zac Brown Introduces Dolly Parton’s Special Tribute
Zac Brown introduced the video by explaining that Parton had recorded it not long before her death, specifically for the teachers gathered at the event.
“Not long before we lost her, Dolly recorded a special message for the teachers in this room. She took the time to speak directly to you, and I can’t think of a better way to begin this night,” Brown said.
He then reflected on the meaning of Parton’s legacy, describing it as something that went beyond what a person creates to include what they give to others.
“When I think about legacy, I think about what we create, but even more than that, I think about what we give away,” he said, before highlighting Parton’s extraordinary contributions through music, her belief in children and her efforts to create opportunities for others.
When Parton appeared on screen, she greeted the audience with the warmth and cheerful energy that had become her trademark.
“Well hey there!” she began.
“I am so happy to welcome you to Nashville as the CMA Foundation celebrates 10 years of Music Teachers of Excellence. Now, I’m excited that you’re all staying at my new Songteller Hotel and I’m thrilled that you’re getting to see my Life Of Many Colors Museum.”
Her message then turned to the educators at the heart of the celebration.
Dolly Thanks Teachers for Inspiring the Next Generation
Parton spoke about the role music plays in bringing people together, while emphasising that teachers are essential to passing that gift on to future generations.
“I’ve always believed that music brings people together but none of that happens without dedicated teachers who encourage and inspire and believe in the next generation,” she said.
She also offered a direct expression of gratitude to the honorees for the work they do every day.
“And that’s why we’re celebrating tonight. And to every music teacher of excellence, I want to thank you for your passion, patience, and care that you give your students each day. Congratulations on this incredible milestone and keep making beautiful music together!”
The message resonated with viewers, many of whom took to social media to express how much they missed the country music icon.
One fan wrote, “Wasn’t planning to have tears in my eyes at 7:45am, but here we are. 🦋”
Another commented, “Dolly, we miss you 😘 🦋🩷! My tear ducts been working over time 🥲 Rest easy beautiful Dolly.”
A third reflected on the privilege of having lived during Parton’s lifetime, writing, “We are SO blessed to have lived in the eras of @dollyparton 🥹🩵🦋.”
For many watching, the video was more than a ceremonial greeting. It was a reminder of Parton’s enduring connection with her audience and her longstanding commitment to encouraging others.
Zac Brown Performs His Dolly Parton Duet, “Butterfly”
The emotional tribute continued after the video ended, when Zac Brown performed “Butterfly,” a song he and his band originally released with Parton in 2025.
Brown sang his parts live, accompanied by a recording of Parton performing her vocals. The performance brought her voice back into the room, allowing the audience to experience their collaboration once again.
It was a fitting tribute at an event celebrating the people who keep music alive for future generations. Parton’s influence continues not only through the songs she recorded, but also through her philanthropy, her support for children and education, and the opportunities she helped create for others.
Her message to the music teachers captured that spirit in a few simple words: keep inspiring students, keep bringing people together and keep making beautiful music.