Ryman Auditorium was home to the Grand Ole Opry until 1974 when the Opry moved less than 10 miles outside of downtown Nashville. In 1882, Ryman Auditorium opened as the Union Gospel Tabernacle. Its nickname, "The Mother Church of Country Music" comes from its original use. The Grand Ole Opry broadcast from here from 1943 until 1974. The auditorium still is used for concerts and recording albums. It also has been used for filming movies. For example the movie Coal Miner’s Daughter about Loretta Lynn was filmed at Ryman Auditorium. We saw some of the dressing rooms backstage - each one is dedicated to a legendary country music artist, such as Johnny Cash and Minnie Pearl.
Nashville is best known for its music scene, particularly country music, and other forms of entertainment. Downtown Nashville is filled with clubs and bars featuring country music performers. Nashville also has been the home to various country tv shows, such as the now defunct Hee Haw. Gospel and Christian music companies are located in Nashville. There also are active jazz and theater scenes in the city.
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