Ryman Auditorium

  Like most people, we enjoy various kinds of music; some types more than others. Admittedly, our knowledge of,and experience with, country music and the Blues hasn't been extensive. However, one thing we have learned from our adventures has been to be open to new ideas and experiences, often with surprisingly pleasant results. Our visits to both Memphis and Nashville has led us to realize that there is an interconnectivity between the various genres; i.e. Gospel and folk music evolved into the Blues, Blue Grass, and Honky Tonk; which led to Popular, Rockabilly, and, eventually, to Rock-n-Roll. Exploring the sounds of Memphis and Nashville has been eye opening. Recently, we went to "The Mother Church of Country Music" - the Ryman Auditorium. This former Union Gospel Tabernacle was home to the Grand Ole Opry for 31 years (1943 to 1974). Were we surprised to learn that Captain Thomas Ryman, who had earned his fortune as owner of a fleet of gambling riverboats and several saloons, would make a 180 degree turn and build a gospel tabernacle based upon the principles of temperance! And who would have foreseen that this church, in order to pay down substantial debt, would turn into the world mecca of country music because of the building's fantastic acoustics? During our visit, we took advantage of both the self-guided regular tour and a special backstage tour, so that we could learn as much as possible about this important Nashville attraction. We really enjoyed both. If you would like to learn more about the Ryman Auditorium and of Thomas Ryman, try this link:

      rymanauditorium.com/history

The Ryman Auditorium (formerly the Union Gospel Tabernacle).

Portrait of Captain Thomas Ryman, who spearheaded the construction of the Union Gospel Tabernacle ( later named the Ryman Auditorium).

The auditorium stage with the Grand Ole Opry backdrop. While the Opry officially moved to larger quarters in 1974, it still makes annual visits to the Ryman.

1940's artist rendition of the crowds attending concerts at the Ryman.

Glen Cambell backstage during his final tour.

During our backstage tour, we were able to stand on the edge of the stage with the Grand Ole Opry backdrop...

...and with the auditorium seats behind us.

Bronze statues of Minnie Pearl and Roy Acuff in the lobby, greet visitors to the Ryman.

Minnie Pearls' famous hat (with the price tag still attached) and shoes that she wore in everyone of her appearances on stage.

The Windows replicating stained glass were an addition during a later renovation project.