WTCI, the Tennessee Valley’s PBS station, will host a special 45-minute preview screening of the upcoming Ken Burns documentary series, Country Music on Thursday, Sept. 5 at 6 p.m.
"Guests at this event will revel in a sneak preview from the series, a behind-the-scenes experience with Songbirds artifacts and a performance by the New Dismembered Tennesseans," officials said. "Sponsored by Merrill Lynch, a Bank of America company, this special PBS evening will feature hot appetizers and a cash bar in one of the most unique music-centric venues in the country."
Country Music is an eight-part, 16-hour documentary series directed and produced by Ken Burns that explores the history of a uniquely American art form. Guests will enjoy a 45-minute overview of the entire Country Music series through segments featuring stories about Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Vince Gill, Garth Brooks and more, exploring the spirit and history of the country music genre. This series will debut on-air Sunday, Sept. 15 and be available to stream online.
"WTCI is honored to be partnering with the legendary country music station, WUSY/US101, a RADIO.COM station, to promote this iconic PBS series from Ken Burns," officials said. "Attendees will be amazed by a unique experience with Songbirds President Johnny Smith and some of the exhibits in what is recognized as the premier collections of rare and valuable guitars in the world.
"The Songbirds museum explores the impact that the guitar has had on music history from the early 1900’s to present day. It has become a mecca for guitar aficionados and features 1,700 guitars with a selection of vintage acoustic, electric, jazz, bass, mandolin, banjos and music memorabilia."
Johnny Smith, president of Songbirds, says “We are honored to partner with WTCI to preview this Ken Burns series, there is nothing more exciting than learning about country music history while being surrounded by the instruments who helped make it.”
"A special performance by the New Dismembered Tennesseans will complete this unique PBS experience," officials said.
Formed in 1945, the Chattanooga-based band Dismembered Tennesseans was led by champion fiddler Fletcher Bright. The New Dismembered Tennesseans continue his legacy and include original band member Ed Doc Cullis with alums Laura Walker and Don Cassell, joined by Eleanor Bright on banjo, guitar and vocals, Thomas Cassell on mandolin and Tom Morley on fiddle.
Seating is limited for this event and reservations are available online at https://www.wtcitv.org/an-evening-of-country-music/. Tickets are $75/person and are tax-deductible donations to Chattanooga’s community PBS station. Sponsorship opportunities are available and businesses are encouraged to contact Randy Jackson at 423-702-7820.