Bach and Sinatra share a weekend at the Theatre

At 8 p.m. next Saturday (April 12) at the Theatre at Washington local, globally known jazz pianist Bill Harris offers a solo recital in which he explores the melodies and forms of his favorite songs from the vast catalog of Frank Sinatra. Elaborating with his trademark lyrical improvisation on familiar tunes that’ll include such classics as “Takin’ A Chance on Love,” “Witchcraft” and “Angel Eyes,” among many others. Harris has often expressed his fondness for playing at the Theatre: “The audience is greatly appreciative, the acoustics are marvelous and the piano is wonderful to play — and is always in tune,” he says. “Also, living locally in Rappahannock County is a big bonus.” You can express your fondness by calling 540-675-1253 or emailing info@ theatrewashingtonva.com for a ticket ($25, or $10 for ages 17 and younger).

The following afternoon — Sunday, April 13 — a Smithsonian at Little Washington chamber concert series highlight rescheduled from one of those February white-out weekends, takes the stage at 3 p.m. The all-Johann Sebastian Bach concert features violinist Robert Mealy and harpsichordist Kenneth Slowik, who’ll perform sonatas by the great baroque composer.

Slowik and Mealy are both leaders in the field of historical performance — Slowik being artistic director of the Smithsonian Chamber Music Society and a familiar presence at the Theatre. Baroque violinist Mealy is concertmaster of the Boston Early Music Festival Orchestra and director of Juilliard's Historical Performance program. He also teaches at the Yale School of Music. Between them, Slowik and Mealy have some 140 recordings to their credit.

A much-valued part of all Smithsonian at Little Washington concerts, Slowik’s concert commentary sheds light on the glorious music and the life and times of the featured composers. Recipient in 2011 of the Smithsonian secretary’s Distinguished Research Lecture Award, Slowik generally offers an abbreviated version of the talk that precedes each of the concerts heard in that other Washington.

Tickets for the April 13 concert are $25 ($10 for ages 17 and younger). Reservations for preferred seating are recommended, but unreserved tickets will also be available at the box office. Call 540-675-1253 email info@ theatrewashingtonva.com.