When Marty Stuart released Ghost Train earlier this year, he had a specific purpose for the album. "I thought it was time that someone put out an album based on the foundation of country music," Marty told The Boot just prior to the album's release. "I had been writing songs for this project for a long time, and I finally felt that I had enough songs that were honest, whether I wrote them or pulled them from the abyss of country music. I found a collection that felt right."

Marty's instincts paid off as he has received critical acclaim for the album of traditional country music. Now the singer and music historian is set to receive more accolades, when he's presented with the Nashville Symphony's Harmony Award on December 11, 2010 at Nashville's Symphony Ball.

The annual award is presented to the person who demonstrates a continued interest and support of music in Nashville -- someone who has contributed to the development and appreciation of Nashville music culture. Marty personifies the description of the award; having served as president of the Country Music Foundation, he continually supports the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and its various programs. His annual Marty Party late-night jam each June benefits MusicCares, and throughout the year he and his Fabulous Superlatives are on the road taking the best of Music City to countless fans across the country and around the world.

When Marty recorded Ghost Train at Nashville's historic RCA Studio B, the country superstar came full circle in his career, returning to the place where he participated in his first recording session as a teenager playing with bluegrass legend Lester Flatt.

"I was 13 when I recorded there the first time," Marty remembers. "The album did bring me full circle. RCA Studio B felt like the perfect setting for this album of traditional country music."

Marty, who along with his wife, Grand Ole Opry legend Connie Smith, is nominated for a Grammy® this year (for 'I Run to You,' a track from Ghost Train) will be joined in the Saturday ceremony by Nashville Mayor Karl Dean, who will be presented the Gold Baton Award, for leadership, community spirit and service to others. Mayor Dean has been a avid supporter of the music community and to music education in the schools.

Others who have received the Harmony Award include Carrie Underwood, Amy Grant, LeAnn Rimes, Trisha Yearwood, Dolly Parton, the Judds, Steve Winwood, Vince Gill, Chet Atkins, Rascal Flatts and Martina McBride.

By Vernell Hackett