1) World-class jazz vocalist Wendy Reed kicks off the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic’s new season of Jazz at Helen’s in separate shows at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday at Helen Haddad Hall, 315 Franklin St. in downtown Columbus. She will sing tunes from the American Songbook backed by piano, bass, and drums. Reed now can be heard at many of the top jazz rooms including Bangkok Jazz Bar and the world-renowned Jazz Kitchen in Indianapolis. Information and tickets: thecip.org.
2) Since it began just a few years ago, the free Su Casa Columbus’ Fiesta Latina event is one of the most joyous, exuberant celebrations on the local calendar. From the dance troupes to the Mariachi music, the free event highlights Latina culture with remarkable style and flat-out fun. And that’s not just my observation. More than a few attendees have told me the same. The 2023 version opens at noon Saturday along Fourth Street and runs until 10 p.m. It has been one of the city’s best-attended events for some time.
3) Mark your calendar ahead of time: Soft pop vocalist Christopher Cross, whose music formed much of the soundtrack of my college days, will be in concert at 8 p.m. Oct. 7 at Brown County Music Center. If you’re old enough to remember at all, surely you know his hits: “Sailing,” “Arthur’s Theme,” “Ride Like the Wind,” and others. Information: browncountymusiccenter.com.
