Nashville Opera Guild Honors Earl Swensson, 1/22
Each year Nashvillians gather for one special evening of gourmet foods, fine wines, and unforgettable song at the Nashville Opera Guild's La Bella Notte. This year's gala will be held at the Hilton Downtown Nashville Hotel on Saturday, January 22, 2011 beginning at 6:30 p.m. The black-tie event is the organization's largest annual event fundraiser, with proceeds supporting a variety of education initiatives including Nashville Opera's Mary Ragland Young Artist Program and in-school outreach performances throughout Middle Tennessee. In addition to the gourmet dinner with wines paired to each course, the evening features a silent auction of luxury items and exotic travel packages. La Bella Notte is co-chaired for the first time by mother and daughter, Louise Kitchens and Carla Nelson, with Judy Liff Barker serving as this year's honorary chairperson. Tickets are $250 per person and are available by calling Nashville Opera at (615) 832-5242.