The proposed visit is part of the Tamworth-Nashville Protocol that identifies alternate delegate visits, with Nashville scheduled to visit Tamworth in 2015 and 2019, and Tamworth to visit Nashville in 2017 and 2021.

The visit, which sits outside of the CMA Music Festival, will focus on identifying further economic development opportunities for Tamworth from the Nashville experience.

Cr Murray said it might seem unusual for Tamworth to visit Nashville outside of its music festival, but there is more than just country music to benefit from the relationship.

“Of course, a great synergy between Tamworth and Nashville is our success in the country music space, however there is so much more to learn from our relationship with the city,” he said.

“Previously, we have visited during the CMA Music Festival, however, this time we have opted to visit outside of this.

“This trip will focus on identifying economic development opportunities for the Tamworth region.

“The population of Nashville is growing at an amazing rate – on average 100 people per day, meaning the city is recognised as a ‘boom city’ in the US.

“Tamworth is growing, not quite at the scale that Nashville is, but our figures are significant and we have a lot to learn from this relationship.

“During our visit, we will meet with the Mayor and Vice Mayor Metro Government of Nashville, Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development and also the higher education sector where we will tour Belmont University.”

The mayor’s accommodation is paid for by the Sister Cities of Nashville, with Mr Bennett and Mr Sommerlad being home hosted by members of the Sister Cities at no expense.