About
If you only have time to attend one music venue in Nashville, make sure it's the Ryman Auditorium!
The story of the Ryman is as colorful and heart-tugging as a country song. In 1885, Captain Thomas G. Ryman, a 44-year-old Nashville businessman, attended a religious tent revival given by Reverend Sam Jones. The sermon so moved Ryman that he dedicated his life to God and vowed to build a church large enough to accommodate those who wanted to hear the reverend.
True to his word, Captain Ryman spent $100,000 to construct the Union Gospel Tabernacle in 1892. When Captain Ryman died in 1904, Reverend Jones suggested renaming the building in his honor.
Over the decades, the venue transitioned from a house of worship to "the Mother Church of Country Music" as host of The Grand Ole Opry. The show broadcasted from this stage from 1943 to 1974, bringing the sounds of twangy guitars and heartfelt ballads into living rooms across America. Legends like Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, and Johnny Cash made their start on stage at the Ryman Auditorium.
While nostalgia is a wonderful reason to catch a show here, it's the room's acoustics that truly make the venue shine. The room's sound quality is what draws artists from all genres to experience the sonic magic. Fans flock here for the shows because there's not a bad seat in the house, both sonically and visually speaking.
As the Opry's success continued to rise, they knew they needed a larger facility. In 1974, the Opry moved to its new facility beside the Gaylord Opryland Resort. In passing the torch, workers cut out a circular section of the Ryman stage and installed it at the Opry. When you book a tour at the Opry, you'll learn more about this event as well as get to stand on it.
With the loss of the Opry, the Ryman sat dormant, and demolition seemed inevitable. Thankfully, preservationists fought to save the historic landmark, and a 1994 renovation restored the venue. Such foresight ensures future generations will be able to enjoy the Ryman.
Whether you catch a performance or you take a tour, the sheer weight of history makes every visit memorable. Be sure to schedule time in your Tennessee vacation for a memory-making experience at the Mother Church.
Ryman Auditorium: Fun Facts & Cool Features
A fun fact is the curved wooden church pews that pay homage to its roots as a church. These solid oak benches, refurbished in 1994, add a memorable and beautiful touch to the Ryman.
As mentioned above, the building's acoustics are a marvel to behold. The builders designed the venue to avoid sharp angles, utilizing gentle curves to project sound. The architectural design enables a performer to speak at a conversational volume on stage and be heard by someone in the back row.
The Hatch Show Print posters at the venue, featuring vibrant, hand-set letterpress, chronicle the diverse acts that have graced the stage. Trace the lineage, from rock legends to classical virtuosos.
The various tours offered let you explore the auditorium and capture some photos onstage. The stained glass windows add another layer of charm, casting colorful shadows across the balcony. These windows contrast with the typical dark interiors of modern concert halls, giving the space an airy, spiritual feel.
Naturally, catching a concert at this venue is a must! Aside from its superb sound quality, the history and beauty are enthralling.
The Ryman Auditorium is the beating heart of Nashville's musical history. Book a tour, watch a show, and experience The Mother Church firsthand!
Local Tips
- Make sure to reserve show and tour tickets in advance or your vacation.
- The Ryman Sidewalk Sessions on the PNC Plaza are free, with live music and a bar.
- Upgrade your show with the Ford VIP Lounge, offering privacy and other perks.
- Check the concert schedule for performances that align with your trip.
