The CMA Music Festival

The CMA Music Festival in Nashville, TN will be held this year from June 8-11, 2006.



Tickets are still available at Ticketmaster to the four day festival. Click over to Ticketmaster or the CMA Fest site now!

Ticketmaster Official Website

CMA Music Festival Official Website





Dateline: May 24

NBC Daytime Stars Of "Days Of Our Lives" And "Passions" Return To CMA Music Festival For Sixth Consecutive Year

"Sixth Annual NBC Daytime After Hours Party" Takes Over Wildhorse Saloon On Saturday, June 10, With Surprise Musical Guest

Real life drama is a staple of both Country Music lyrics and daytime television series, and the artists and actors meet at the crossroads during 2006 CMA Music Festival when the NBC Daytime Stars of "Days of our Lives" and "Passions" return for the sixth consecutive year. CMA Music Festival takes place Thursday-Sunday, June 8-11 in Downtown Nashville.

The actors from "Days of our Lives" will include Darin Brooks ("Max Brady"); Christie Clark ("Carrie Brady"); Bryan Dattilo ("Lucas Roberts"); Rachel Melvin ("Chelsea Benson"); and Alison Sweeney ("Sami Brady"). Five additional actors from "Passions" will be joining them, including Adrian Bellani ("Miguel Lopez-Fitzgerald"); Galen Gering ("Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald"); Emily Harper ("Fancy Crane"); Heidi Mueller ("Kay Bennett"); and Mark Wystrach ("Nicholas 'Fox' Crane"). The popular Dattilo, Gering, Mueller, and Sweeney are CMA Music Festival veterans. Both Dattilo and Sweeney have participated in 2003 and 2004; while Gering and Mueller both appeared in 2003. The other six actors are making their CMA Music Festival debut this year.

"The NBC Daytime Stars have been wildly popular with our attendees each year," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Operating Officer. "The actors are as devoted to their fans as our Country Music artists have always been. It is a pleasure to welcome them back again this year."

"NBC Daytime is thrilled to be partnering with CMA again this year to bring our stars to Nashville for Music Festival," said Annamarie Kostura, Vice President, NBC Daytime Programs. "A great mix of new and returning stars will be in attendance and as always, we promise an incredibly entertaining and exciting performance at the Wildhorse Saloon - with some new surprises for fans!"

The NBC Daytime Stars will appear in the Wrangler® Fan Fair (Exhibit Hall) where they will meet their fans and sign autographs. They will also make several appearances during the event at the Daily Concerts at the Greased Lightning® Riverfront Stages and the Nightly Concerts at The Coliseum. But their most anticipated appearance during the event will be at "The Sixth Annual NBC Daytime After HoursT Party" at the Wildhorse Saloon at 11:00 PM on Saturday (a separate ticket is required). During the event, the actors will showcase their musical talents and interact with fans. A special surprise musical guest will also join the party. Tickets are $25 in advance and are available by visiting the Wildhorse Saloon box office, going to any Ticketmaster outlet, or logging on to www.ticketmaster.com.

"The NBC Daytime After Hours Party is always an exciting event," said Genovese. "Connecting the fans with celebrities is the heart of CMA Music Festival, and this party continues those traditions. It will be a great night of entertainment."

"Days of our Lives" is set in the fictitious Midwestern town of Salem. The core families are the Hortons and Bradys, and the multi-layered storylines involve elements of romance, adventure, mystery, comedy and drama. "Days of our Lives" is produced by Corday Productions Inc. in association with Sony Pictures Television.

"Passions" takes place in the fictitious New England town of Harmony and explores the lives, loves and losses of four core families who reside there - the Cranes, the Lopez-Fitzgeralds, the Bennetts and the Russells, each of whom have their own distinct and diverse personalities. "Passions" is produced by NBC Studios in association with Outpost Farms Productions, Inc.

To promote the NBC Daytime stars appearance at CMA Music Festival, CMA and NBC teamed up for a contest with "After MidNite With Blair Garner," a nightly syndicated Country Music radio program from Premiere Radio Networks. Various NBC Daytime actors have visited the studios of "After MidNite" to talk about CMA Music Festival and upcoming plotlines on their shows. One lucky listener became the Grand Prize Winner, receiving a "Days of our Lives" walk-on role and a trip for two to Nashville for the Festival (including airfare).

For up-to-the-minute information about tickets, travel information, schedules, artist appearances and more, visit www.CMAfest.com and sign up for e-news.

To order tickets for the 2006 CMA Music Festival call 1-800-CMA-FEST (262-3378); visit www.CMAfest.com to download an order form to fax or mail; visit www.ticketmaster.com to buy online or charge-by-phone at (615) 255-9600.

Four-day ticket package categories correspond to a different level of reserved seating at The Coliseum. Four-day ticket packages include the Nightly Concerts at The Coliseum; Daily Concerts at the Greased Lightning® Daytime Stages; daily admittance to the Wrangler® Fan Fair® (Exhibit Hall) featuring the Acoustic Corner; Family Zone; Crisco® Country Favorites Corner; Fun Zone; Sports Zone; CMA Music Festival After Hours; free in-town shuttles; the CMA Music Festival Program Book; CMA Music Festival pin; special discounts to area attractions, restaurants, shops and more. Prices start at $125 for adults; $86 for children ages 4-14; and children 3 years and younger admitted free, and do not include applicable handling fees. Ticket prices and artists are subject to change without notice. All sales are final and non-refundable.

Dateline: May 23

Country Music Artists And Professional Athletes Collide In The CMA Music Festival's Free Sports Zone

Sports Zone Features Andy Griggs Celebrity Archery Tournament; Steve Azar Celebrity Sports Challenge; Craig Morgan FLW Outdoors Fishing Tournament; Michael Peterson New Holland Celebrity Tractor Race; Professional Anglers Q&A And Autograph Sessions; And Appearances By NASCAR Busch Series Drivers

CMA Music Festival is a unique celebration of Country Music and the interaction between fans and their favorite celebrities. The Sports Zone continues that tradition with a variety of friendly competitions between Country Music artists, celebrities and professional athletes, as well as musical performances, displays and more.

CMA Music Festival takes place Thursday-Sunday, June 8-11 in Downtown Nashville. The popular Sports Zone has moved to a new location in 2006, taking residence in the covered parking lot between Third and Fourth Avenues (next to the new Schemmerhorn Symphony Hall and across the street from the Family Zone), although a few select activities will take place in other locations (listed below). The Sports Zone is open from 11:00 AM-5:00 PM during CMA Music Festival. Admission to the Sports Zone is free to the public.

"Where else but CMA Music Festival can you watch your favorite artists display their athletic skills and interact with sports celebrities," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Operating Officer. "Sports Zone is also a great free area for Nashville families to visit and enjoy, providing local fans with unusual opportunities to meet their favorite sports stars."

On Thursday, June 8, the Fifth Annual Andy Griggs Celebrity Archery Tournament, sponsored by RealTree and Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, will be held beginning at 4:30 PM at Lot R on the grounds of The Coliseum. In addition to Griggs, Rhett Akins, Tracy Byrd, Troy Gentry (of Montgomery Gentry), Daniel Lee Martin, John Michael Montgomery, Blake Shelton, Rusty Tabor, Neil Thrasher, Aaron Tippin and Bryan White are confirmed to compete. RealTree's Michael Waddell will emcee the event.

Fans should arrive early to Lot R on the grounds of The Coliseum for the Archery Tournament in order to watch a unique performance. At 4:15 PM, the U.S. Navy Parachute Team "Leap Frogs" will perform a show spotlighting their jumps. The U.S. Navy Parachute Team is a 15-man group comprised entirely of U.S. Navy SEAL and SWCC commandos. Each member comes to the team from a three year tour from one of the two Naval Special Warfare Groups located on the East and West coasts. On completion of the tour, members will return to operational units.

Also on Thursday, some of today's hottest NASCAR Busch Series Drivers will be signing autographs in the Sports Zone from 3:30-5:00 PM. Fans will have the opportunity to meet Aaron Fike, David Green, Burney Lamar and other drivers during this session.

On Friday, June 9, the Steve Azar Celebrity Sports Challenge, presented by On The Run and Exxon, will be held in the Sports Zone from 2:00-4:00 PM. An amazing array of sports champions and celebrities will compete along with Azar in this unique event, including Dave Archer (former NFL quarterback with the Atlanta Falcons and the Miami Dolphins); Terry Ahola (U.S. Olympic Ski Team member); Drew Bennett (NFL wide receiver with the Tennessee Titans); Steve Buerlien (former NFL quarterback with the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Carolina Panthers, and current game analyst for the NFL); Luke Clausen (FLW Outdoors professional angler); Steve Cole (former NFL linebacker with the Cleveland Browns and Philadelphia Eagles); John Daly (legendary PGA golfer); Jace Everett (Sony BMG recording artist); Craig Hentrich (NFL punter with the Tennessee Titans and two-time Pro-Bowler); Jim Kelly (former NFL quarterback for the Buffalo Bills and NFL Hall of Fame member); Steve Lundquist (two-time U.S. Olympic Gold Medalist in swimming); Jim McMahon (two-time Super Bowl champion and former NFL quarterback with the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers); Pat Perez (PGA Pro Golfer); Gino Torretta (Heisman Trophy Winner with the Miami Hurricanes and former NFL quarterback with the Seattle Seahawks); Gary Valentine (actor on "The King of Queens" show on the CBS Television Network); and Chris Young (Sony BMG recording artist and the 2006 winner of "Nashville Star"). The Tennessee Cheerleading Company will lead the cheers throughout the event. Azar himself assembled this outstanding collection of athletes.

Saturday, June 10, features the Craig Morgan FLW Outdoors Fishing Tournament. Anglers confirmed to participate include Luke Clausen, George Cochran, Anthony Gagliardi, Chad Grigsby, Jason Knapp, Jeremiah Kindy, Larry Nixon, Wesley Strader, David Walker and Clark Wendlandt. These anglers will team with Morgan and other Country Music artists including Jamey Johnson and Lila McCann to fish for the biggest catch on area lakes. The weigh-in will take place at 6:30 PM on the Greased Lightning® Daytime Stages at Riverfront Park (which is accessible only by four-day and single day ticket buyers). Named after the legendary founder of Ranger Boats, Forrest L. Wood, FLW Outdoors administers the Wal-Mart FLW Tour, Wal-Mart FLW Series, Stren Series, Wal-Mart Bass Fishing League, Wal-Mart Texas Tournament Trail, Stratos Owners' Tournament Trail, Wal-Mart FLW Walleye Tour, Wal-Mart FLW Walleye League, Wal-Mart FLW Kingfish Tour, Wal-Mart FLW Kingfish Series, and Wal-Mart FLW Redfish Series. These circuits offer combined purses exceeding $36.9 million through 241 events in 2006. FLW Outdoors also recently announced the addition of a striped bass circuit, which will debut this summer.

Fans will have the opportunity to meet some of today's top anglers live and in person. They will be signing autographs on Thursday and Friday (June 9-10) in the FLW Outdoors booth.

K-9's in Flight, presented by ZenPuppy, will also be featured on Saturday, June 10, with three performances (11:30 AM-12:30 PM; 1:30-2:30 PM; and 3:30-4:30 PM). John Misita and his amazing K-9's are the premier Frisbee dog entertainers in the world with a show full of cutting edge, high-flying acrobatics. Misita adopted all of his dogs, and their show promotes the importance of pet adoption and healthcare. During the last 10 years, Misita and his dogs have performed in more than 150 cities in North America and have appeared on Animal Planet, Discovery Channel, Disney Channel, ESPN, ESPN2, HBO, "Jerry Lewis Telethon," MTV and more.

Sunday, June 11, spotlights the Michael Peterson/New Holland Celebrity Tractor Race from 1:00-3:00 PM. Country Music artists and celebrities will race against the clock through an obstacle course on a New Holland compact tractor. A New Holland Boomer compact tractor will be signed by all participating celebrities and auctioned off at a later date on eBay, with proceeds to be divided between the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and to the winner's charity of choice. Participants include Deborah Allen (Curb recording artist); Bering Strait (Universal South recording group); singer/songwriter Woody Bradshaw; singer/songwriter Bekka Bramlett (former member of both Fleetwood Mac and Bekka & Billy); The Honorable William J Chatfield (Director of Selective Service); actor Alan Dysert; actor Scott Getlin; Craig Hentrich (NFL punter with the Tennessee Titans); Janet Ivey (creator of "Janet's Planets"); Robert K Oermann (noted Country Music historian and journalist, as well as former judge on the USA Network's television series "Nashville Star"); singer/songwriter Bobby Pinson; singer/songwriter Colt Prather; and singer/songwriter Billy Yates.

Throughout the four days, artists will perform on the CMT Stage at the Sports Zone. Among the artists performing this year are the Alvarado Road Show, Paulette Carlson, Eli Young Band, Fanny Grace, Greg Hanna, Joni Harms, Hometown News, Natalie Howard, Zona Jones, Sage Keffer, Matt Mason, Danni O'Neill, Michael Peterson, and John Stone.

The Sports Zone will host many activities and displays throughout the four days of CMA Music Festival. The MLB Road Show is a free interactive baseball experience where fans can test their skills in batting and pitching cages or play the latest baseball video game releases in state-of-the-art gaming stations. While there, sports enthusiasts can also check out the MLB Authentic Collection, the exclusive jerseys, headwear and outerwear identical to what is worn by players on all 30 Major League Baseball clubs. Fans can also test their flight skills in the U.S. Navy flight simulators; get autographs from top anglers and try out the FLW Outdoors boat simulator; sign up for a free test run on the Cumberland River from Ranger Boats; and much more. Additional exhibitors include Bridgestone Firestone; Coyote Ugly; Dave & Busters; Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt; New Holland Tractors; Nicorette Gum; On the Run and Exxon; Sound & Speed; Yamaha Motor Corp.,USA; and ZenPuppy.

To order tickets for the 2006 CMA Music Festival call 1-800-CMA-FEST (262-3378); visit www.CMAfest.com to download an order form to fax or mail; visit www.ticketmaster.com to buy online or charge-by-phone at (615) 255-9600.

Four-day ticket package categories correspond to a different level of reserved seating at The Coliseum. Four-day ticket packages include the Nightly Concerts at The Coliseum; Daily Concerts at the Greased Lightning® Daytime Stages; daily admittance to the Wrangler® Fan Fair® (Exhibit Hall) featuring the Acoustic Corner; Family Zone; Crisco® Country Favorites Corner; Fun Zone; Sports Zone; CMA Music Festival After Hours; free in-town shuttles; the CMA Music Festival Program Book; CMA Music Festival pin; special discounts to area attractions, restaurants, shops and more. Prices start at $125 for adults; $86 for children ages 4-14; and children 3 years and younger admitted free, and do not include applicable handling fees. Ticket prices and artists are subject to change without notice. All sales are final and non-refundable.

For up-to-the-minute information about travel information, schedules, artists appearing and more, visit www.CMAfest.com and sign up for e-news or purchase official CMA Music Festival merchandise.

All of the artists participating in CMA Music Festival donate their time. They are not compensated for performing. In appreciation of their continued support, CMA recently launched "Keep the Music Playing," a program which donates half the net proceeds from the event to the Nashville Alliance for Public Education, to support music education in metro Nashville's public schools on behalf of the artists. To date, CMA has donated more than $800,000 to charity on behalf of the artists who participate in the Festival.

Dateline: May 15

ON STAGE AND UP LATE: ARTISTS ANNOUNCED FOR OPRY TRUST FUND BENEFIT JUNE 8 AT RYMAN AUDITORIUM

ADDITIONAL CMA MUSIC FESTIVAL WEEK PERFORMERS ANNOUNCED

Wynonna, Joe Nichols, Jason Aldean, Steve Wariner, Tracy Byrd, Joe Diffie, and Jim Ed Brown are among the country music artists who will be burning the midnight oil on stage at the Ryman Auditorium during the annual Grand Ole Opry Trust Fund Benefit scheduled for Thurs., June 8, 2006 at 11:00 p.m. The event is a CMA Music Festival week late-night tradition benefiting the Opry Trust Fund, which assists members of the country music community in need. Additional artists will be announced in the coming weeks.

Additional Opry shows during CMA Music Festival week include the Tuesday Night Opry on June 6, 7 - 9 p.m. at the Grand Ole Opry House, weekend Opry performances at the Opry House, an Opry at the Ryman CMA Music Festival matinee (Sat., June 10, 3 - 5 p.m.) and the kick-off of Opry Plaza Parties (Sat., June 10, 5:30 p.m.). Among the artists scheduled for Opry performances during the week are Keith Anderson, Diamond Rio, Sara Evans, Montgomery Gentry, Josh Gracin, Craig Morgan, Lorrie Morgan, Brad Paisley, Charley Pride, Blake Shelton, Ralph Stanley, Mel Tillis, Pam Tillis, Mark Wills, Gretchen Wilson, Darryl Worley, and Nashville Star winner Chris Young, who will make his Opry debut Sat., June 10.

The Grand Ole Opry® is presented by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store®. For ticket information and updates on Opry appearances, visit http://www.opry.com/ or call (615) 871-OPRY or (800) SEE-OPRY. Grand Ole Opry Trust Fund Benefit tickets are $31.50 to $46.50 for adults and begin at $21.50 for children ages 4-11.

Dateline: April 28

IFCO Guarantees Front Row Seats to Fun Fest!

Two Chances - Here's How!

• Make Us An Offer: Two (2) front row seats to individual who makes the TOP offer. Full amount (100%) of best offer will benefit Monroe Carell, Jr. Children's Hospital At Vanderbilt.

• Make Us An Offer: Two (2) front row seats to individual who makes the TOP offer. Full amount (100%) of best-offer will benefit Loretta Johnson Medical Contributions Fund.

Make Your Offer Today!

* Email us your name, address, phone and offer with "IFCO Front Row Seats for Vanderbilt Children's Hospital" in the subject window.

* Email us your name, address, phone and offer with "IFCO Front Row Seats for Loretta Johnson Medical Fund" in the subject window.

Offers MUST be received no later than Saturday, May 13th!

(You may submit a separate offer on each Front Row seating opportunity.)

What if you make a winning offer and already have paid reservations?

You will receive a full refund for full purchase price of two tickets (as soon as tickets previously purchased are returned to the IFCO office.)


Dateline: April 13

Performers Added to 39th Annual IFCO Show

IFCO (the International Fan Club Organization) has added Hot Apple Pie, Rachel Proctor, Con Hunley, Keni Thomas, the Alvarado Road Show, Todd Fritsch and Rustie Blue to the lineup of the 39th Annual IFCO FunFest Show on Tuesday, June 6th at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee. Additionally, Robert K. Oermann will host the show and the house band will be directed by Joe Bob Barnhill.

Previously announced acts include The Oak Ridge Boys (headline act), Little Big Town, Steve Azar, Andy Griggs and Megan Mullins.

The 2006 IFCO FunFest Show benefits Nashville's Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt http://www.vanderbiltchildrens.com . This new Nashville hospital was created to give children a place to hope and heal. The focus is on research, education and advocacy, which allows the hospital to provide comprehensive, state-of-the-art care delivered in a nurturing, family-centered environment.

A silent auction will also be held at the event with the proceeds benefiting Nashville's Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt. To donate items for the auction, please contact: Luann Mayer, Vanderbilt Chidren's Hospital. Dev. Office, 2425 West End Ave., Suite 450, Nashville, TN 37203 .

Ticket prices are $38 for Platinum seating, and $32 for Gold seating. Ticket orders can be placed online at: http://www.ifco.org or by calling 615.371.9596.

IFCO is an international regulatory body, and is widely regarded as the foremost authority on setting-up and operating fan clubs. Founded in 1967 by Loudilla, Loretta and Kay Johnson, they have since established IFCO as a respected force in the entertainment industry, a clearing house for fan clubs, and consumer watchdog for the fans.



Dateline: April 12

The 2006 CMA Music Festival will "Keep the Music Playing" in Metro Nashville's public schools with a new charity initiative that will support music education through a partnership with the Nashville Alliance for Public Education, the Country Music Association announced at a press conference today.

The Nashville Alliance for Public Education will be the sole recipient of funds donated on behalf of the artists and celebrities who participate in CMA Music Festival in 2006. All of the funds - anticipated to be $300,000 this year - will be used to support music education for Nashville's 73,000 public school students.

"Nashville is Music City; CMA Music Festival is the city's signature musical event; and music education in the public schools is where it all begins," said CMA Chief Operating Officer Tammy Genovese. "It is up to all of us - the city, the business community and music industry - to 'keep the music playing' for the kids. And CMA and our artist community are committed to the effort."

The theme of the charitable donation program is: "Music City + CMA Music Festival = Music Education: Keep the Music Playing."

CMA unveiled the campaign at the Nashville School of the Arts (NSA), which in 2005 received nearly $20,000 from CMA Music Festival's charity donation to the Nashville Alliance for Public Education to purchase musical instruments and build a guitar lab at the school. James DeSilva, a tenth-grade music student from NSA, performed at the announcement.

"Performers like James illustrate what this program is all about - getting instruments and music into the hands of the kids who will benefit most," Genovese said.

"The Nashville Alliance is excited to partner with CMA Music Festival in support of music in public schools. There is no more important endeavor than that of education," said Kay Simmons, Executive Director of the Nashville Alliance. "We are proud that the CMA has made this commitment which will ensure that all students in Nashville are afforded the multiple benefits of music education."

In 2001, CMA launched "Cause for Celebration!" as a way to say thanks to the hundreds of artists and celebrities who give their time to make appearances and perform at CMA Music Festival for free.

As part of the "Cause for Celebration!" program, half the net proceeds from the Festival were donated to charities selected by the artists. To date, CMA has donated more than $800,000, divided among more than 100 individual charities.

In 2005, of the 247 artists who designated a charity, the Nashville Alliance for Public Education was the No. 1 choice. With the support of the CMA Artist Relations Committee and Board of Directors, the program will now continue as "Keep the Music Playing" with a single focus on music education in Metro Nashville.

"After examining the potential impact and seeking feedback from other festivals, including the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the artist representatives on the CMA Board of Directors and our Board members decided that we could accomplish more if we focused our Festival resources on one charity," Genovese said. "It was important to all of us that the charity had a strong connection to Nashville and our artists. The Alliance was a perfect fit. They have a mission our members and the artist community believe in - getting instruments and music into the hands of students throughout Nashville."

One hundred percent of all money donated by CMA Music Festival will be used for music education and go directly to the schools and school programs identified by the Nashville Alliance. A representative of CMA's Board of Directors - Steve Buchanan, Senior Vice President Media and Entertainment Gaylord Entertainment and chair of the CMA Marketing and Communications Committee - will oversee distribution of the CMA Music Festival charitable funds and report to CMA's Board.

Music education is a funding priority for the Nashville Alliance. Over the last two years, the Alliance has placed $1 million worth of musical instruments in public schools. However the need exists for an additional $3 million worth of instruments. "All gifts to the Nashville Alliance are tracked by [an Alliance] Board Committee to ensure maximum accountability," Simmons said. "Therefore, we will be able to report back to the artists and the community the use of CMA Music Festival's charitable gift and the impact it makes in increasing music education opportunities for the youth in our community."

An example of the CMA Music Festival charitable program already at work was on display at the announcement.

Nashville artist and member of the MuzikMafia Rachel Kice created artwork at last year's Festival that will be used in an art program that will benefit the Nashville Alliance. One example of the support the program has received, but there are many opportunities for growth and community involvement including working with the Nashville business community and music industry stakeholders.

"In addition to providing funding for music education, CMA is in a position as the trade association for the industry to be able to reach out to other businesses and organizations in our community that have an interest in supporting children and music education," Genovese said.

CMA Music Festival is an unparalleled music experience that is not to be missed. And with more people attending than ever in the history of the event - 145,000 in 2005 - CMA anticipates being able to contribute $300,000 to the Nashville Alliance for Public Education to be used for school music programs in 2006.

CMA Board Member and Executive Producer of CMA Music Festival Tony Conway, President and Co-Owner of Buddy Lee Attractions, sees the charity program as an incentive for Nashvillians and the Nashville business community, which rely on the music industry and tourism as an important source of revenue and corporate awareness for the city, to get involved in the event.

"CMA Music Festival is a quality, family entertainment experience that supports children and public schools," Conway said. "This event represents the best of our lifestyle in Nashville with events and activities that will appeal to everyone. The business community and residents of Nashville can 'do good' and 'feel good' at the same time by attending and supporting the Festival. You can have a great time and make a difference for kids in public school."

CMA Music Festival celebrates its 35th year in 2006 on Thursday through Sunday, June 8-11, in Downtown Nashville. Dubbed the "crown jewel of Country Music Festivals" by USA Today, the event features four jam-packed days of music with more than 400 artists and celebrities, 70 hours of concerts, 30 hours of autograph signings, family activities, celebrity sports competitions and much more.

Four-day ticket packages correspond to a different level of reserved seating at The Coliseum. Four-day ticket packages include the Nightly Concerts at The Coliseum; Daily Concerts at the Greased Lightning® Daytime Stages; daily admittance to the Wrangler® Fan Fair® (Exhibit Hall) featuring the Acoustic Corner; Family Zone; Crisco® Country Favorites Corner; Fun Zone; Sports Zone; CMA Music Festival After Hours; free in-town shuttles; the CMA Music Festival Program Book; CMA Music Festival pin; special discounts to area attractions, restaurants, shops and more.

Prices for four-day ticket packages start at $125 for adults and $86 for children ages 4-14 (children 3 years and younger admitted free). Price does not include applicable handling fees. Ticket prices and artists appearing are subject to change without notice. All sales are final and non-refundable.

For up-to-the-minute information about tickets, travel information, schedules, artist appearances and more, visit http://www.cmafest.com/ and sign up for e-news.

To order CMA Music Festival tickets, call 1-800-CMA-FEST (262-3378); visit http://www.cmafest.com/ to download an order form to fax or mail; visit http://www.ticketmaster.com/ to buy online or charge-by-phone at (615) 255-9600.

Once again in 2006, CMA Music Festival will be filmed for a two-hour, ABC Television Network special that will air later this year. The special is produced by Robert Deaton and directed by Gary Halvorson. The 2006 CMA Music Festival is organized and produced by the Country Music Association. Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio broadcaster. Promotional partners include Crisco, Greased Lightning and Wrangler. Fan Fair is a registered trademark of CMA.

Dateline: April 11

CHELY WRIGHT & FRIENDS COME TOGETHER TO MAKE 6TH YEAR A CHARM

With Wynonna, Julie Roberts, Little Big Town and Keith Anderson slated to perform at Reading, Writing & Rhythm Concert Event

Dualtone recording artist Chely Wright has announced the date for the 6th Annual Reading, Writing and Rhythm Benefit Concert. Kicking off this year’s CMA Festival, the benefit concert and corresponding silent auction is scheduled to take place Tuesday, June 6, at the Wildhorse Saloon in Nashville, TN.

Singer/songwriter Chely Wright, who is best known for her radio hits “Single White Female,” “Shut Up and Drive,” and most recently “Bumper of My S.U.V,” and who has garnered accolades and awards from both the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music as well as People Magazine, has earned national recognition for her mission to provide music and music education in our schools.

Chely established the Reading, Writing & Rhythm Foundation in 1999 with the objective of improving the quality of music education in America's public schools and raising public awareness surrounding the importance of music education for our nation's youth. Wright set forth with the modest goal of raising $5,000 a year to promote music in schools. Since then, the organization has raised nearly $1 Million. She acknowledges this endeavor and the annual benefit concert is a lifework that is close to her heart, “Music means so much more to life than just the sounds that we hear on the radio. Music, whether playing an instrument or singing in a choir, opens the doors to creativity, self-expression and confidence—all of which are vital elements in a child’s healthy learning, behavioral and development process.”

Chely’s peers have openly applauded her charge. Each year, more and more artists jump on board to offer their talents to support the effort making the concert itself a sold-out event, year after year

This year the 2006 Reading, Writing and Rhythm Benefit Concert will feature a star-studded line-up with a special appearance by Wynonna. “I'm thrilled to be a part of this amazing event for the kids,” says Wynonna. “Chely has truly created magic in communities across the nation with her organization--The Reading, Writing and Rhythm Foundation--and I am excited to have the opportunity to join the line-up this year. Anyone [like Chely] who takes time to help our kids is a true star in my book and I'm thrilled to help her in this endeavor. It will be the party of the year!”

Julie Roberts returns for a second time to perform joined by Little Big Town and Keith Anderson with more artists being confirmed. The event will air live on XM Satellite Radio.

Reading, Writing and Rhythm has drawn the attention of country music fans worldwide as a “must-attend” event; moving CMA’s Ed Benson to introduce the Chely Wright & Friends Concert as an “unofficial official Country Music Festival Event.”

Ticket Information

NOTE: This event is routinely SOLD-OUT! So buy your tickets early!

Tickets are $30 p.p. and can be purchased by visiting http://www.Chely.com or via TicketMaster at http://www.ticketmaster.com

For more information on Chely Wright visit http://www.chely.com

For information on how you and your school can be involved or become the beneficiary of Reading, Writing and Rhythm visit wrandr.org


39th Annual IFCO Show Announces Performers

IFCO (the International Fan Club Organization) announced today that the 39th Annual IFCO FunFest Show will be held Tuesday, June 6th at 7:30 p.m. at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee.

Headlining this year's event will be The Oak Ridge Boys. Also on the show are Little Big Town, Steve Azar, Andy Griggs and Megan Mullins, with other performers to be announced.

The 2006 IFCO FunFest Show benefits Nashville's Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt http://www.vanderbiltchildrens.com . This new Nashville hospital was created to give children a place to hope and heal. The focus is on research, education and advocacy, which allows the hospital to provide comprehensive, state-of-the-art care delivered in a nurturing, family-centered environment.

Ticket prices are $38 for Platinum seating, and $32 for Gold seating. Ticket orders can be placed online at: http://www.ifco.org or by calling 615.371.9596.

IFCO is an international regulatory body, and is widely regarded as the foremost authority on setting-up and operating fan clubs. Founded in 1967 by Loudilla, Loretta and Kay Johnson, they have since established IFCO as a respected force in the entertainment industry, a clearing house for fan clubs, and consumer watchdog for the fans.



Dateline: March 14

Los Lonely Boys And Ronnie Milsap To Perform Together At 2006 CMA Music Festival In Nashville

The Charlie Daniels Band Kicks - Off Festival With Riverfront Concert

Jason Aldean, Gary Allan, Pat Green, Little Big Town, Joe Nichols, Josh Turner And Trisha Yearwood Also Join Artist Lineup For Nightly Concerts At The Coliseum

Unique musical experiences and legendary performances are just two of the many highlights of CMA Music Festival, and the 2006 event will be no exception as artists continue to be added to the lineup.

The Festival celebrates its 35th year in 2006 on Thursday through Sunday, June 8-11, in Downtown Nashville, Tenn with four jam-packed days featuring 70 hours of live music; 30 hours of autograph signings; family activities; and much more. In 2005, more than 145,000 fans from all 50 states and 20 nations experienced the ultimate destination for America’s music.

Ronnie Milsap will team with Los Lonely Boys for a rare joint performance. Other artists added to the star-packed lineup for the Nightly Concerts at The Coliseum include Jason Aldean, Gary Allan, Pat Green, Little Big Town, Joe Nichols, Josh Turner and Trisha Yearwood.

Previously announced artists performing at The Coliseum include Trace Adkins, Brooks & Dunn, Terri Clark, Billy Currington, Sara Evans, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, Montgomery Gentry, Brad Paisley, LeAnn Rimes, Blake Shelton and Carrie Underwood, with more to be named in the coming weeks.

“Unique musical collaborations, such as uniting Ronnie Milsap with Los Lonely Boys, and special surprise guests that are always popping up are what CMA Music Festival is all about,” said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Operating Officer. “Our fans have come to expect the unexpected from us. It is why they come back year after year. CMA Music Festival always has something fresh to offer.”

The great musical performances are not limited to the night, however. The legendary Charlie Daniels Band will kick-off the 2006 CMA Music Festival with a dynamic performance on the Greased Lightning® Riverfront Stage on Thursday, June 8 at 10:00 AM.

“Each year we try to kick off CMA Music Festival with an artist who epitomizes the wonderful relationship between our fans and the artists,” said Genovese. “Charlie is an obvious choice. He embodies musical creativity, artistic and personal integrity – and the fans and our industry love him for it. And there is no artist who loves the fans more than Charlie Daniels.”

Additional artists added to the Daily Concerts on the Greased Lightning Riverfront Stages include Rhett Akins, Jessi Alexander, Keith Anderson, Rodney Atkins, BlackHawk, Blue County, Bomshel, Catherine Britt, Shannon Brown, T. Graham Brown, Tracy Byrd, Carolina Rain, Eric Church, John Corbett, Cowboy Crush, Joey Daniels, Erika Jo, Jimmy Fortune, Todd Fritsch, The Grascals, Rebecca Lynn Howard, Jamey Johnson, Blaine Larsen, Little Texas, The Lost Trailers, Rockie Lynne, Bobby Marquez, Ashley Monroe, Megan Mullins, David Lee Murphy, Gary Nichols, Jake Owen, Shane Owens, Povertyneck Hillbillies, Jon Randall, Restless Heart, Ryan Shupe and the Rubberband, Mel Tillis, Pam Tillis, Aaron Tippin, Trent Tomlinson, Trick Pony, Tanya Tucker, Lane Turner, Jimmy Wayne and Bryan White, with more to be announced soon.

Performers already announced for the Daily Concerts include Jessica Andrews, Steve Azar, The Bellamy Brothers, Lane Brody, Sonny Burgess, Emerson Drive, Jace Everett, The Fox Brothers, Susan Haynes, Hot Apple Pie, Con Hunley, Buddy Jewell, 2006 Telstra Road to Tamworth winner Nick Kingswell, Brice Long, 2006 CMA Global Artist Award winner Jason McCoy, Oak Ridge Boys, Danielle Peck, Ray Scott, Keni Thomas, Trent Willmon, Mark Wills, Darryl Worley and Michelle Wright.

CMA Music Festival also includes celebrity autograph signings in the Wrangler® Fan Fair; intimate performances in the Acoustic Corner; celebrity competitions (including the Fifth Annual Andy Griggs Celebrity Archery Tournament) in the Sports Zone; activities and demonstrations for kids of all ages in the Family Zone, Fun Zone and Crisco® Country Favorites Corner; special events in the clubs and venues of Downtown Nashville during CMA Music Festival After Hours™; in-depth, moderated panel discussions with artists at the CMA Celebrity Close Up sessions hosted by GAC television personality Lorianne Crook; and more.

All of the artists and celebrities participating in CMA Music Festival donate their time. They are not compensated for the hours they spend signing autographs and performing. In appreciation of their continued support, CMA donates half the net proceeds from the event to charity on behalf of the participating artists. To date – on behalf of the artists – CMA has donated more than $800,000, including an additional $200,000 in 2005 to aid hurricane victims.

To order tickets for the 2006 CMA Music Festival call 1-800-CMA-FEST (262-3378); visit www.CMAfest.com to download an order form to fax or mail; visit www.ticketmaster.com to buy online or charge-by-phone at (615) 255-9600. Four-day ticket package categories correspond to a different level of reserved seating at The Coliseum. Children 3 years and younger are admitted free. Four-day ticket packages include the Nightly Concerts at The Coliseum; Daily Concerts the Greased Lightning Daytime Stages; daily admittance to the Wrangler Fan Fair (Exhibit Hall) featuring the Acoustic Corner; Family Zone; Crisco Country Favorites Corner; Fun Zone; Sports Zone; CMA Music Festival After Hours; free in-town shuttles; the CMA Music Festival Program Book; CMA Music Festival pin; special discounts to area attractions, restaurants, shops and more. Prices do not include applicable handling fees. Ticket prices and artists are subject to change without notice. All sales are final and non-refundable.

2006 CMA MUSIC FESTIVAL FOUR-DAY TICKET PACKAGE PRICES

* NOTE: Please call 1-800-CMA-FEST (262-3378) for information on ADA seating, which may be available in Sold Out sections.

A limited number of four-day parking passes for The Coliseum are available by phone order only. Call toll-free 1-800-CMA-FEST (262-3378) to order. The price is $28 for cars; $60 for vans/shuttles; and $120 for RVs/motor coaches. Prices do not include handling fee. Spaces are limited and no overnight parking is allowed. All persons planning to park at The Coliseum must pre-purchase the parking pass. Free shuttles (for four-day registrants) will run daily between major Festival event locations.

Attending is easy. Numerous tour operators provide tour packages including CMA Music Festival tickets, accommodations, and tickets to other Nashville attractions, such as the historic Ryman Auditorium, the Grand Ole Opry, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Visit www.MusicCityUSA.com or call 1-800-657-6910 for more information on tour packages as well as hotel listings and information about camping sites and RV parking.

For up-to-the-minute information about tickets, travel information, schedules, artist appearances and more, visit www.CMAfest.com and sign up for e-news.

Once again in 2006, CMA Music Festival will be filmed for a two-hour, ABC Network Television special that will air later this summer. The special is produced by Robert Deaton and directed by Gary Halvorson.

2006 CMA Music Festival is organized and produced by the Country Music Association. CMA Board member Tony Conway is the Executive Producer of CMA Music Festival. Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio broadcaster. Promotional partners include Crisco, Greased Lightning and Wrangler. Fan Fair is a registered trademark of CMA.

Stay Tuned to this site for more information on the festival as it becomes available!!