Weekend Events: Byzantine Music, Garden Fest and Hawaii!
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Friday, June 12: Dimitre Cantemir: A Life in Music
Not a fan of today's over-sexualized, pyrotechnic-laden popular music performances? For those of you longing for the music of a simpler—but nonetheless glorious—age, come on out to the Freer where you can enjoy the hit parade of the Ottoman Empire! In a lecture studded with musical performances by Lux Musica, learn about Dimitre Cantemir (1673-1723), a man of letters and a musicologist who had the presence of mind to document contemporary Ottoman music, ensuring their survival. He was also quite an accomplished composer himself, with approximately 350 pieces to his credit. Free. Freer, 1:00 PM. This event repeats on Saturday, June 13 at the Freer at 2:30 PM.
Saturday, June 13: Garden Fest 2009
This time of year, I love hanging out in the Enid A. Haupt Garden (it's the big formal one behind the Castle). So what if allergies get the better of me—it's an absolutely beautiful space in which to spend the lunch hour. It's also the perfect home to the Smithsonian Horticulture Division's third annual Garden Fest. Suitable for green thumbs of all ages, come enjoy events such as lectures and demonstrations from museum experts on garden-related fun as well as musical performances by the Richmond Indigenous Gourd Orchestra. (Yes, they pride themselves on the fact that they grow their own instruments.) Check out the Garden Fest website for more information. Free. Enid A. Haupt Garden, outside the Smithsonian Castle. 10:00 AM- 4:00 PM
Sunday, June 14: Celebrate Hawai'i: 2-Day Family Festival (Saturday June 13 and Sunday June 14)
Summertime is coming 'round the bend, so you're sure to get an eyeful of people in Hawaiian shirts (good, bad and mind-numbingly hideous). But how much do you really know about Hawaii except that it's the land of leis, ukuleles and ice cream served atop red beans? (If you watch Rick Sebak's An Ice Cream Show, people obviously enjoy the culinary combo.) Learn something a little more substantial about that beautiful chain of islands and the rich culture of the people thereon in this day-long celebration. Enjoy fashion shows, dancing, movie screenings, games, lei making, weaving and textile designing. Not able to make it out today? The festival also occurs on Saturday, June 13. Free. American Indian Museum, 10:30 AM-5:00 PM
To plan your visit or learn more about events and exhibitions at the Smithsonian, go to our companion site, goSmithsonian.com.