America's great concert halls: many stages are practically destinations in themselves - Directory

Travel America, Jan-Feb, 2004 by Alice Ross

PENNSYLVANIA

Philadelphia's historic Academy of Music, which opened in 1857, calls itself the country's oldest grand opera house still used for its original purpose. Home to the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Academy also presents the joyous sounds of jazz, gospel, Viennese waltzes, and Philly Pops concerts. (215) 893-1999; www.academyofmusic.org.

TENNESSEE

Former home of the Grand Ole Opry, downtown Nashville's Ryman Auditorium was originally built for a preacher who had shown riverboat captain Tom Ryman the light. His church didn't survive--but the pews remain--and light streams in through colorful glass windows in the restored hallowed hall which, in addition to the greatest names in country, has hosted such luminaries as Enrico Caruso and Paderewski. The 107-year-old establishment presents country, gospel, bluegrass, and more. (615) 458-8700; www.ryman.com.

No trip to Nashville would be complete without a visit to the Grand Ole Opry. Adjacent to Gaylord Opryland, the Opry s actually the world's longest-running radio show, bringing to its audience a fantastic mix of talent, including top country and bluegrass artists. (615) 889-3060; www.opry.com.

TEXAS

At the International Festival Institute in Round Top, the 1,200-seat Festival Concert Hall with its hand-carved wooden interior features more than 50 concerts annually. Founded by renowned concert pianist James Dick, he Institute trains young musicians and presents new and traditional works. Upcoming performances will feature the Elision Saxophone Quartet, Meridian Arts Ensemble, and piano concerts by James Dick. (979) 249-3129; www.festivalhill.org.

Fort Worth is taking bows for the highly acclaimed Nancy Lee and Perry R. lass Performance Hall. In addition to being the home of the Fort Worth Symphony and Fort Worth Opera (it's being hailed as one of the top 10 opera houses in the world). Bass Hall also resents pop entertainers. (817) 2124280; www.basshall.com.

WASHINGTON, D.C.

Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is a living memorial to the former resident and the country's showplace cert the performing arts. Besides concerts by the National Symphony Orchestra, it presents a fine jazz series. Ensuring the arts are available to all, Kennedy Center stages at least one free performance daily at the center or the Washington area. (800) 444-1324; www.kennedy-center.org.