Keith Urban, Nashville Symphony Award Honors His Love of Music City

Keith Urban's honor-filled year isn't over yet. Since the beginning of 2012, the 44-year-old has been inducted into the Grand Ole Opry, become a judge on the hit TV show, "American Idol," and received a CMA Award nomination for Male Vocalist of the Year. The New Zealand-born singer has been named this year's recipient of the Nashville Symphony's Harmony Award, in honor of his contributions to Music City.

"Keith Urban has been such a vital force in this community," symphony CEO and president Alan Valentine explains (quote via Nashville's Tennessean), citing both the millions of dollars he has raised for the Country Music Hall of Fame and his charitable work for victims of the 2010 Nashville flood as examples. "What he brings to Nashville is precisely what the Harmony Award symbolizes."

The married father of two has been crossing the country for the "Idol" auditions, along with returning judge Randy Jackson and fellow newcomers Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey, who have been mainstays in the news for their alleged feud. However, Keith insists everything is fine on the set of the hit reality TV talent show. "I love working with passionate people," Keith told "Extra." "I love artists. Everyone just sort of expressing themselves. It's a very alive and very invigorating work environment. A lot of passion."

Keith will receive the award during the symphony's annual white-tie ball on Dec. 8 at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. Previous recipients of the Harmony Award include Martina McBride, Michael W. Smith, Steve Winwood, Amy Grant, LeAnn Rimes and Taylor Swift, who received the honor in 2011. Tickets for the fundraiser are $750 and may be purchased by calling 615-687-6541.

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