String Theory

If you’re wondering why a lute player is one of the featured performers at the Cleveland Institute of Music’s Classical Guitar Weekend, organizer Armin Kelly says the old-school stringed instrument is an obvious ancestor. “Many works originally written for lute are now performed on classical guitar,” he says. When Grammy-nominated Paul O’Dette strikes up his lute, listen for the link to “Stairway to Heaven” and its famous guitar-plucked opening. You’ll immediately hear the connection. You’ll also hear guitarists from Spain, Greece, and China in master classes and concerts all weekend long. “It is in these blissful moments of musical magic that we are often reminded most of our shared humanity,” says Kelly. The event plays through Sunday at various spots throughout town. Admission ranges from free (for classes) to $25 (for performances).
Fri., March 9