Washington, D.C./ Arts & Culture
Published on March 25, 2019
Love live music? Jazz, blues and more are heating up Washington this weekPhoto: Rich Smith/Unsplash  

If you love live music, there's no time like the present when it comes to getting out and about in Washington. From 16th century folk songs to classical choral music to a Nina Simone tribute, here are the local shows worth checking out this week.

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The Hand that Guides Us: A Meditation for Mary Lou Williams

Mary Lou Williams was a jazz pianist who composed works for the likes of Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. In 1956, she converted to Roman Catholicism, and she spent much of the 60s performing sacred music. Musician Reginald Cyntje and his group explore that transformation at this free show at Sotto.

When: Sunday, March 31, 7:30-9 p.m.
Where: Sotto, 1610 14th St. NW
Price: Free
Click here for more details, and to RSVP

Blues Alley

Half-price tickets are available to hear the Bohemian Caverns Jazz Orchestra (BCJO) conducted by composer and arranger Jihye Lee. It's part of the citywide Washington Women in Jazz Festival.

When: Monday, March 25, 10 p.m.
Where: Blues Alley, 1073 Wisconsin Ave. NW
Price: $11
Click here for more details, and to get your tickets

"Tastes of the Mediterranean: Music of 16th Century Spain and Italy"

Save $10 on tickets to this taste of Renaissance music at the Folger Theatre. Soprano Jessica Beebe and wind ensemble Piffaro, The Renaissance Band will touch on styles from Spanish villançicos to Italian frottole.

When: Friday, March 29, 8 p.m.
Where: Folger Theatre, 201 E. Capitol St., SE
Price: $32
Click here for more details, and to get your tickets

The Thirteen Choir

Another half-off opportunity is this night of vocal performances by The Thirteen. The choir will perform works from Bach, Handel and others on a theme of connection — both the strength it can bring and its fragility.

When: Saturday, March 30, 7:30 p.m.
Where: First Congregational UCC, 945 G St. NW
Price: $15
Click here for more details, and to get your tickets

Briclyn Ent. presents A Tribute to Nina Simone featuring Michelle D. Bennett

Finally, jazz vocalist Michelle Bennett will perform the songs of Nina Simone at City Winery. Bennett's her first single, "In This Place", was nominated for the 2016 Praise and Worship Song of the Year by Rhythm of Gospel Music Awards. Her newest EP, "I Finally Found My Place", was released in 2017.

When: Monday, March 25, 6 p.m.
Where: 1350 Okie St. NE, Washington, DC 20002
Price: $30
Click here for more details, and to get your tickets