Nashville has become a hive for songwriters and musicians in all genres—from pop and country to contemporary Christian—and it’s an ideal locale for students with musical interests to buzz about.
“One unique thing about many of the attractions in Nashville is they complement one another to show a comprehensive look at music,” says Wayne Chandler, director of sales and group services with Grand Ole Opry Entertainment Group.
The Grand Ole Opry is a hotspot for rising stars, and student performance groups can experience that excitement for themselves. Chandler says about 80 percent of the school groups that visit are music classes, choirs, or bands, and the Opry has put together an exclusive performance package for these musical bunches.
Students can gather at the Opry Plaza in front of the Grand Ole Opry House for a performance as guests pour in for the famous weekly show. The package includes recognition in the plaza, tickets for the Grand Ole Opry, admission to the Opry daytime backstage tour, lunch or dinner, and a collectible pin for each performer.
The backstage tour opens the door to the past, diving deep into the stories of the talented people who’ve shaped country music. It begins with the Circle Room theater experience—led by a virtual Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood—then takes a trip through stars’ dressing rooms and the backstage area. Groups can also stand beneath the spotlight on the famous Grand Ole Opry stage. Chandler says specialty programs that cover the technical side of the business are offered as well.
For more info, email Chandler or go to opry.com/groups.
Top photo: Opry daytime tours feature stars’ dressing room
Photo by Grand Ole Opry Entertainment Group
Support for Courier articles provided by:
American Music Theatre
Broadway in Chicago Group Sales
Disney Theatrical Group
Graceland & Guest House at Graceland
Mirvish Productions
Sweet Home Alabama
