Nashville

Lucy's birthday present to me was a chance to play one of the most famous pianos in the world - the 1947 Steinway at Studio B in Nashville, played by Elvis and many of the best recording artists of the twentieth century. And now me!  We drove up to Nashville on the 1st.  We visited the Ryman Auditorium and Broadway that afternoon. 

I've never listened to country music nor intend to, but the auditorium is an architectural gem and the musical legacy is an integral part of its history.  People loved this building - you can feel that when you're there.  We also drove out to the new location of the Grand Ole Opry and the boys played in the rain next door at the inevitable shopping complex. 

We stayed the night in another grand old Nashville building - the Union Station hotel.  There were goods trains passing by our window, which the little boys thought was the ultimate amenity.

Tuesday morning it was time for my birthday treat.  The tour starts at the Country Music Hall of  Fame - Andrew was very excited to be there.  (All my US coins are now in that fountain thanks to two little boys)

After the hall of fame galleries and rotunda, everyone piles on a bus to Studio B to see Nashville's most famous recording studio.  And here was the highlight of the trip - the piano. 

Apparently, Elvis loved the piano and wanted to acquire it.  Manager of the studio Chet Atkins, told him, "Elvis, you don't have a enough money to buy that piano."  So here it has remained for six decades of legendary recordings.