Today was an incredible day to be a music student (or teacher!) in Nashville. In the morning, we had outstanding tour guides at RCA Studio B, where over 1,000 #1 hits have been recorded, including over 200 songs in Elvis' catalogue. The students are now familiar with names like Chet Atkins, Dottie West, Charley Pride, and Roy Orbison. Feel free to quiz them! The highlight of the tour was standing in the studio in the pitch black listening to Elvis' recording of "Are you lonesome tonight", which was indeed recorded in darkness at 4 AM. Our own accompanist Terry Dillon was given the honor of playing Elvis' Steinway piano...our tour guide simply removed the DO NOT TOUCH sign! Our mighty chaperones continue to amaze and keep everyone happy, healthy, and on time during the trip. We even have the BEST bus drivers Ray and Jamal, and the BEST tour guide Charles. We lucked out this time around. The Ryman Auditorium was stunning, and the backstage tour of the Grand Ole Opry let us stand in the circle where the singers stand, see green rooms, and walk through the entire theater. The students soaked in some sun while posing for a photo outside the Opry, but cooled down in time for billiards, foosball, line dancing and a rip-roaring good time at the Wildhorse Saloon. The only complaint was why we couldn't stay longer and dance more! When we left, the streets were pulsing with live music, motorcycles, and twinkling lights. This city feels so comfortable, even to those of us here for a few short days. We received several more compliments today on our well-behaved and well-dressed group of students. Way to represent, Hillmen! Packing to head home will be our challenge tonight, and leaving for home will be bittersweet. We have had a tremendous trip. We will all be doing some serious napping on the way home. See you soon, Platteville!