A Tennessee Waltz Celebrates the State’s History with Elegance

Friends and supporters of the Tennessee State Museum gathered at the Tennessee State Capitol for an evening of fun and fundraising at the annual A Tennessee Waltz. While preserving and sharing the state’s history, the museum also offers educational programming for children and adults to deepen their understanding of Tennessee’s rich heritage.

As guests ascended the Capitol steps, a string quartet welcomed them with the familiar melody of Redd Stewart and Pee Wee King’s “Tennessee Waltz.” Co-chairs Dawn and Tre Hargett greeted attendees beside a stunning floral display shaped like Tennessee. After collecting their table assignments, guests headed upstairs for the cocktail reception. 

The day’s rain gave way to clear skies, and revelers ventured onto the terrace to enjoy the evening air, a little elbow room and sweeping views of the Nashville skyline. Some even indulged in a cigar or two. Inside the library, guests perused an extensive selection of silent auction items.

Following the reception, guests gathered for dinner and remarks. In honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary, blue-and-white linens and vibrant red floral centerpieces adorned the tables. Once everyone settled in, Dawn and Tre took center stage. Tre, Tennessee’s secretary of state, spoke about his work and the state’s standing among its peers — before turning his attention to the museum’s mission. 

“We get to preserve the artifacts of our great state,” he said, thanking guests for supporting that important work. “We get to make them accessible.”

After dinner, guests returned upstairs, where eye surgeon and accomplished musician Ming Wang captivated the crowd with a rendition of “Tennessee Waltz” on the erhu, a traditional Chinese two-stringed instrument. The performance struck a chord with revelers, who showed little interest in calling it a night. Instead, they took to the dance floor and waltzed the evening away to the sounds of the Midtown Jazz Quartet.