Heights Arts has just announced the four concerts that will be part of its intimate chamber music series, Close Encounters, now in its tenth year. To get things rolling through, it is presenting a master class with violist Jonathan Brown at its gallery. The public is invited to listen in. Mon 10/26. * Local women musicians unite to support breast cancer patients at Breastfest at Brothers Lounge. Sun 10/25.
* Folksinger David Wilcox returns to his native NE Ohio to play Happy Days Lodge. Sun 10/25.
* Some of Cleveland's best jazz musicians join the Cleveland POPS Orchestra for a big band tribute at Severance Hall. Sat 10/24.
* The Akron Symphony plays an evening of Mozart, Prokofiev and Faure at EJ Thomas Hall. Sat 10/24.
Read more picks by Anastasia Pantsios here
Women are in the spotlight at "Women Wine & Whey," the Countryside Conservancy fundraiser that includes a tour of the Winery at Wolf Creek, where it takes place, and an educational (and tasting) session on wine & cheese pairings — with both created by women. Wed 10/28.* If you like to go to big, convivial places and make friends with strangers, the Hofbrauhaus at PlayhouseSquare is the place for you. The Bier Garden-style restaurant is celebrating its first anniversary with a big party that's sure to be big fun. Thu 10/22.