
THE INVESTMENT ISSUE
W.O. Smith Music School: Investing in Nashville's Next Generation of Musicians












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W.O. Smith Music School: Investing in Nashville's Next Generation of Musicians












Investment. By definition, it’s the act of dedicating time, energy, or resources toward something with the hope of a worthwhile return . But in practice, it’s so much more. Whether it’s our community, relationships, finances, or personal growth, the things we invest in shape our futures and the lives of those around us.

We can invest in our community by supporting local businesses, schools, and organizations. Volunteering and mentoring are powerful ways to contribute to future generations. On a broader scale, participating in public surveys and staying informed about city planning are investments in the places we call home.
Financial investments help us build security and achieve long-term goals. Every year at this time I think about a time when I invested personally in an individual stock and sold it a couple of months later for a handsome profit. It made me think I was smart when, in reality, I was merely lucky. And over the next few months my savvy trade was “balanced” by others that went in the opposite direction.
But the lesson learned was valuable as it underscored the opening paragraph of this month’s Lifestyle Letter. Investing is not meant to be a quick fix. Whether it’s spending quality time with loved ones or fostering deeper connections—investment brings immeasurable rewards to us and the people we care about.
The evidence is everywhere in our part of the world. For nearly 45 years the W.O. Smith Music School has been investing in the long-term enrichment of Nashville by making music lessons accessible to all children. Advisors at Mariner are helping clients solidify their legacies by establishing self-directed funds for charitable giving. You’ll even find community investment at entertainment venues and social gatherings like the 85th running of the Iroquois Steeplechase on May 9 at Percy Warner Park. Over the years the event has raised millions of dollars for Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.
These are examples of the types of investments that have the most meaningful impact not only for us but to the people closest to us. We hope you enjoy reading about them this month.

ED ATLAS, EDITOR
April 2026
PUBLISHER
Doug Waterman | doug.waterman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Ed Atlas | ed.atlas@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Lindsey Baydoun | hello@lindseybaydoun.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ed Atlas, Angela Broockerd, Jennifer Kaufman, Kellie Walton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Ed Atlas
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas





















Learn to Play Hockey is for women with little-to-no playing experience but who are eager to get out on the ice. This comprehensive 10-week program (7 practices, 3 games) begins June 4 at Ford Ice Center in Bellevue. Participants will receive instruction on the essential skills needed for a meaningful introduction to the game. Complete details, including registration and equipment information, are available online at NHL.com/predators/fordicecenter/adult-learn-to-play
The community choir, Tempo, will present its spring concert, “Requiem,” along with three spirituals on April 26 at Bellevue United Methodist Church, 7501 Old Harding Pike. The concert is open to the public and admission is free. “Requiem,” a major compositional work by Mark Hayes, will be accompanied by a chamber orchestra. The six-movement masterpiece, dedicated to Hayes' parents, expresses eternal hope with a glorious musical vision. Daryl Johnson will sing the baritone solo.
Bourbon and Bubbles Fest is an all-in-one tasting event, Iroquois Steeplechase Fashion Show and one fun party! There will be lots of bourbon, bubbles, wine and spirits for tasting and live music from jam-grass band, Greenwood Rye. The event is held at the Steeplechase grandstands. Big hats and Steeplechase apparel encouraged! This event is for ages 21 and up. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit BourbonBubblesFest.com

mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 4/30/26. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.















ARTICLE BY ED ATLAS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
WHEN IT’S IN YOUR HEART TO GIVE, CHARITABLE PLANNING CAN HELP YOU GIVE MORE
This is a time of year when many people take a comprehensive look at their financial condition. For some, that includes charitable contributions and how they can create a lasting legacy and make a positive impact on their community. To learn more, we
stopped by the Nashville office of Mariner, where Leona Edwards, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional (CFP®) and senior wealth advisor, offered some helpful hints and tips for those who might benefit from Charitable Planning.
“As an advisor we can help you determine what form of Charitable Planning works best for you and the organizations you want to support.”
BELLEVUE CITY LIFESTYLE: CHARITABLE PLANNING. IT SOUNDS GREAT; IT’S SOMETHING THAT MANY WOULD LIKE TO DO MORE OF. BUT ARE THERE WAYS TO DO IT THAT ARE MORE EFFICIENT THAN WRITING RANDOM CHECKS?
Leona Edwards, Mariner: Our position is that if it’s in your heart to be charitable, we want to help you do that in a manner that is tax efficient as well. Based on your personal situation, there are several methods to consider.
If you are under the age of 70.5 one such method is the establishment of a Donor Advised Fund (DAF). For example, you can avoid paying the capital gains tax on appreciated stock by transferring the positions into your DAF. Donating enough stock, combined with other itemized deductions, may result in a bigger tax break than the standard deduction.
If you’re 70.5 years of age or older, you may reduce your future and current tax burden by making Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from your IRA. Those donations can be exempt from ordinary income tax, meaning you’ll be able to contribute more to the causes that are important to you.
The third way to help maximize efficiency is to ensure that your estate documents are in order. Most people are not going to have a taxable estate but for those that do, making outright charitable donations or creating a foundation through the estate upon death is another way to reduce potential federal estate tax, currently up to 40%.
An advisor can help you determine what form of Charitable Planning works best for you and the organizations you want to support.
LE: Let’s say the client has lots of Apple stock. When they sell it, they pay capital gains tax. But let’s say that same client also likes to give regularly to their church. An advisor may recommend transferring $50,000 of appreciated Apple stock to their Donor Advised Fund. From there, it can be distributed all at once or it can be stretched out over a time
Leona Edwards, CFP

frame of the client’s choosing. But because you make that large, onetime donation, you’ll get a larger tax deduction that year. It’ll be much greater than writing a $5,000 check every year for 10 years.
This is when charitable giving becomes gratifying and emotional. Clients get excited when they realize that a one-time contribution can provide flexibility in timing and distribution of gifts they’ve always wanted to give. The additional tax benefit is like the cherry on top
LE: In my opinion, a key credential is the CFP® certification, and I also recommend that people confirm that they are working with a fiduciary. That simply means that the interest of the client is first and foremost. We want to find the best strategies for clients who want to give, but we’re never ones to push clients into seeking tax deductions through charitable giving. Maybe they have children they need to help first. There could be other concerns as well. We take all of that into consideration.
At Mariner, advisors providing investment advisory services act in a fiduciary capacity, and most of us at the Bellevue office are CFPs. I’m also a Certified Tax Specialist (CTS), meaning I have additional education in taxes .
BCL: HOW MUCH MONEY DOES A CLIENT NEED TO GET STARTED AND HOW CAN MARINER HELP?
LE: At Mariner, we don’t have client minimums. Our purpose is to positively impact the lives of many. The best first step would be to call the office and set an appointment to meet with an advisor. Bring a tax return with you and have an idea of where and when you’d like to donate.
BCL: MARINER IS WELL KNOWN FOR ITS PHILANTHROPIC ENDEAVORS. HOW DO THOSE OF YOU AT THE BELLEVUE OFFICE PARTICIPATE?
LE: At Mariner we like to say that charitable giving and volunteering is in our DNA. All employees can contribute a portion of their paycheck to the Mariner Foundation. Then we can request grants from the Foundation to go toward causes in our local communities. Recently we volunteered for a day at The Store. In addition to donating our time, we also brought a check from the Mariner Foundation. Last year, the Mariner Foundation surpassed $10 million in total giving.
BCL: DO YOU HAVE ANY GENERAL ADVICE FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO DONATE ON A SMALLER SCALE?
LE: Starting in tax year 2026 people who take the standard deduction on their tax returns qualify for charitable giving deduction. If you file single you can get a deduction up to $1,000. The deduction for married couples filing jointly is $2,000. This will make it possible for just about everyone who wants to give, to get a tax deduction in return







At Barton House Memory Care, we pride ourselves at looking at the world Through Their Eyes.
Our unique approach to Memory Care provides a breakthrough approach to compassionate communication with our residents and their family and friends.
You can trust that your loved one will be cared for with memory care-focused senior living, personalized for their needs, in a beautiful and supportive community.
If you’re looking for a safe and peaceful neighborhood your loved one will be happy to call home, you’ve found it at Barton House.







“Quality, transparency, knowledge, and authenticity are all words we gladly use to describe Howington Construction. We are so happy in our beautiful new home and would recommend them to anyone!” —








'RITE OF SPRING' THROUGH AN EQUESTRIAN-ANCHORED, SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY ANNUAL TRADITION
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER KAUFMAN


There’s something about the first Saturday in May that feels quintessentially Nashville — wide-brim hats, polished boots and the thunder of hooves rolling across Percy Warner Park. On May 9, the Iroquois Steeplechase returns for its 85th anniversary, ushering in another unforgettable “Rite of Spring.”
This year, the beloved tradition adds a new layer of energy with the debut of The Big 98 Stage, presented in partnership with iHeartMedia Nashville’s 97.9 The BIG 98. Set in Centerfield, the live music stage will spotlight Nashvillebased artists throughout the day, blending Music City’s signature sound with one of the South’s most celebrated sporting events.
Of course, the heart of Steeplechase remains the racing itself with six exhilarating races. More than 30,000 spectators are expected to gather, embracing a day that seamlessly weaves sport, style and Southern hospitality.
From the reimagined Magnolia Garden’s all-inclusive elegance to the high-energy Royal 615 Lounge and classic tailgating traditions, there’s a vantage point for every kind of race-day reveler. Families can enjoy a dedicated children’s zone, while fashionistas compete in the always-anticipated Style Contest. This event features something for everyone.
Beyond the pageantry, the event continues its philanthropic legacy, having contributed more than $11.4 million to Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt since 1981.
Gates open at 8 a.m., and with music continuing into the evening, Steeplechase 2026 promises to be as vibrant and community-centered as ever — a Nashville tradition, beautifully evolved.


































W.O. SMITH’S 50-CENT MUSIC LESSONS HAVE SHAPED GENERATIONS OF MUSICIANS.



“THEY LEARN TO PRESENT THEMSELVES IN A GREAT WAY BEYOND JUST LEARNING THE NOTE.”
Back in the 1950s, Dr. W.O. Smith arrived in Nashville, a jazz musician who had played with some of the greats throughout his career. His second act was a teaching post at Tennessee State University, and he watched the city of Nashville seemingly split: on one side, you had Music Row cranking out hit after hit, star after star. On the other, there were neighborhoods like Edgehill, where kids were growing up with nearly no access to the industry that awarded Nashville its nickname. Smith became the first Black member of the Nashville Symphony. Then, in 1984, he founded W.O. Smith Music School on the belief that every child in the city deserved a shot at the thing that made Nashville famous… regardless of their income or zip code. The price of a lesson when Smith first opened the doors? 50 cents. The price today? 50 cents.
“If we’re going to be Music City, it’s a charge to all of us here to truly be Music City,” says current executive director Dr. Valerie Cordero. “Everybody in Nashville should make sure that young people can access music, no matter what their economic background is.”
At 50 cents a pop, that means a family pays between $7 and $25 per semester, depending on how many children they’re enrolling. The school provides


“I GREW UP WITH MUSIC IN MY LIFE,” DR. CORDERO ADDS. “IT WAS A WONDERFUL ESCAPE FOR ME, A WONDERFUL FORM OF SELF-EXPRESSION. IN TIMES I FELT ALONE OR SCARED OR LIKE NOBODY UNDERSTOOD ME, I ALWAYS HAD MUSIC.”
instruments, sheet music, and accessories like guitar strings. The only eligibility requirement is that students qualify for free or reduced school lunches. What’s more, the school has a van that drives around town, ushering students and teachers to and from practice.
With 19 dedicated practice rooms and a curriculum that spans classical music, vocals, jazz ensembles, rock ‘n’ roll, and even audio and music production, the all-volunteer instructors tap into their own skills to invest in the next generation of Nashville musicians. That was part of Smith’s original idea and mission— to capitalize on Nashville’s high concentration of musicians, retired professors, and industry professors looking to invest in the next generation.
“I grew up with music in my life,” Cordero says. “It was a wonderful escape for me, a wonderful form of self-expression. In times I felt alone or scared or like nobody understood me, I always had music.”
Part of the curriculum also hinges on performance—recitals run at the end of each semester and are open to the public, giving students the opportunity to get up on stage in front of a real audience. Students also perform at community events and festivals around town, including a joint showcase at Montgomery Bell Academy’s annual fundraiser.
“Part of that performance aspect is giving them stage presence,” Dr. Cordero explains. “They learn to present themselves in a great way beyond just learning the note.”
Beyond music, the school teaches discipline, teamwork and community, and confidence.
“We are using music as a way for children to develop self-confidence and become good citizens,” she adds.
There are a multitude of ways to support the W.O. Smith mission. If you’re a musician—including classical instrumentalists, rock guitarists, vocal coaches, audio engineers, the list goes on—consider volunteering your time by teaching a class or guest speaking to students.
“If someone has particular knowledge base around the industry—tour member, community band, run a sound studio or recording studio—and want to impart that knowledge on our population, they could certainly volunteer,” Cordero says.
And she practices what she preaches. During working hours, she keeps the business running. Then, she walks down the hall and teaches.
“It would be such a tragedy if kids didn’t get to experience [music],” she adds. “If their school doesn’t have a robust arts program, they would be shut out from those experiences.”
Alumni of W.O. Smith have gone on to careers at every end of the music business: a saxophonist who came up through the program regularly performs around Nashville; a singer continues to work in the industry; and one is a music executive in New York. The school awards scholarships to alumni who choose to major in music. One is finishing a degree at Berklee College of Music in Boston.
So the next time you’re saddling up to a honky tonk or enjoying a jazz band during dinner, think about where the musicians came from, what it took to get there. As with many industries, music can be about who you know and open doors. W.O. Smith Music School is the “who you know” for many young folks who wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to shine.
To learn more about fundraising and volunteer opportunities, visit wosmith.org


“WE ARE USING MUSIC AS A WAY FOR CHILDREN TO DEVELOP SELFCONFIDENCE AND BECOME GOOD CITIZENS.”
ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK
FOUR SIMPLE WAYS TO INVEST IN YOUR MORNING AND START YOUR DAY OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT

One of the best ways to invest in yourself is by creating a consistent and intentional morning routine. No matter how unpredictable or chaotic the rest of your day may become, starting your morning with self-care and purpose sets a positive tone that stays with you throughout the day. Once you develop a morning routine that truly resonates with you, you’ll look forward to it every night, knowing it will set the foundation for a productive and fulfilling day.
If you’re ready to elevate your mornings, here are some meaningful ways to invest in your routine and start each day on the right foot.

One of life’s simplest pleasures is savoring a homemade coffee each morning. While skipping the drivethru may be tough at first, brewing your own allows you to appreciate the process—and chances are, you’ll end up preferring your own perfect cup of joe.

An hour-long gym session before work may not be realistic, but a quick morning walk is. Use this time to clear your mind, enjoy nature, and listen to your favorite podcast or artist—an easy way to start your day feeling relaxed.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, yet often the most overlooked. Setting your alarm just minutes earlier to prepare a fresh, nutritious meal can transform your morning, fueling your body and mind for a more energized and productive day.
Starting your day with a book is far more calming than scrolling through social media. Reading in the morning helps ease you into the day, providing a peaceful and mindful escape that sets a positive, focused tone for what’s ahead.

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.
A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.
Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?
A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.
Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?
A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.
Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?
A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.
“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”
Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?
A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”
Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.
This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.


APRIL 1ST
Nashville Sounds Baseball
FIRST HORIZON PARK
It's a busy opening month of the season at First Horizon Park for the Nashville Sounds, AAA affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. Wedneday 1-Sunday 5 vs. Charlotte Knights (Chicago White Sox); Tuesday 14-Sunday 19 vs. Worcester Red Sox (Boston Red Sox); (MILB.com/nashville); Tuesday 28-Sunday, May 3 vs. Norfolk Tides (Baltimore Orioles). MILB.com/nashville
APRIL 4TH
Concerts Around Town
VENUES THROUGHOUT NASHVILLE
RYMAN AUDITORIUM: Saturday 4: Patti LaBelle; Wednesday 8: BRELAND; Tuesday 21: Styx; Sunday 26: Snarky Puppy; Wednesday 29: RAYE. THE BASEMENT EAST: Saturday 11: Brother Cane. OPRY HOUSE: Sunday 12: Yo-Yo Ma. BROOKLYN BOWL: Monday 13: The Growlers; Thursday 23: Hunter Hayes. MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM: Tuesday 14: Lamb of God.MARATHON MUSIC WORKS: Thursday 24: The Maine.
APRIL 7TH
Nashville Symphony
SCHERMERHORN SYMPHONY CENTER
Tuesday 7: New Worlds, Old Tales: The Music of Bernstein and Stravinsky. Thursday 9-Friday 10: Guerrero Conducts Pétrouchka. Friday 17-Sunday 19: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets In Concert. Tuesday 21: Bluegrass Mass with the Nashville Symphony Chorus. Friday 24-Saturday 25: Ben Rector: Symphonies Across America. Saturday, May 1-Monday 3: The Miraculous Mandarin and Music of Btes. NashvilleSymphony.org
APRIL 8TH, 14TH, 21ST, 28TH
WRNER PARKS NATURE CENTER, 7311 HIGHWAY 100
Experience bird banding at the Warner Park Nature Center banding station. Observe the trained and federally licensed bird researchers and volunteers capture, identify, measure, band (with a unique numbered aluminum leg band), and release wild birds. The data collected informs our understanding of bird populations and migration. April 8, noon to 4 p.m. All others 8 a.m. to noon. WarnerParks.org/upcoming-events/
APRIL 11TH
Nashville Predators Hockey
BRIDGESTONE ARENA
The Predators closeout the regular season with three home games in April. Saturday 11 vs. Minnesota Wild, 4 p.m.; Monday 13 vs. San Jose Sharks, 7 p.m.; Thursday 16 vs. Anaheim Ducks, 7 p.m. NHL.com/predators
APRIL 11TH
The Shelter Dinner
HISTORIC SHELTERS IN WARNER PARKS | 4:00 PM
Reserve a historic picnic shelter for The Shelter Dinner at Warner Parks. Host up to 12 guests for an unforgettable outdoor dining experience while supporting ongoing recovery efforts from the recent winter storm that claimed thousands of the parks' trees. WarnerParks.org/event/the-shelter-dinner/

APRIL 25TH
St. Jude Rock 'n' Roll Running Series
STREETS THROUGHOUT NASHVILLE | 7:00 AM
The St. Jude Rock 'n' Roll Running Series Nashville is jam-packed with authentic music at every turn. Whether you're a recreational runner or an elite competitor, the event features multiple courses for everyone. Experience a legendary tour of Music City filled with iconic landmarks such as Broadway, Music Row, The Gulch, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and more. RunRocknRollNashville.com
APRIL 25TH
Nashville FC Soccer
GEODIS PARK | 7:30 PM
The Nashville Soccer Club has only one home date so make plans now to be at Geodis Park! Saturday 25 vs. Charlotte FC, 7:30 p.m. NashvilleSC.com
APRIL 25TH
PLANTATION PUB, 8321 SAWYER BROWN ROAD
The 6th Annual Mudbug Madness crawfish boil returns to Plantation Pub on Saturday, April 25. Hosted by the Bellevue-Harpeth Chamber of Commerce, Mudbug Madness features all-you-can-eat crawfish and sides, plus two beverages (beer or soft drinks). Doors open at 11 a.m. with live cajun music performed by Roux du Bayou. Tickets ($40 per person, 12-and-under eat free) are available at BellevueHarpethChamber.com.





