DUNWOODY
The Atlanta Balalaika Society Orchestra at Dunwoody United Methodist Church
These Russian and Eastern European folk musicians wear traditional outfits while playing equally traditional instruments. Audience members will watch as conductor David C. Cooper shows his soloing ability on the balalaika, a three-stringed instrument with a fretboard and triangular body. Alla Melnik is set to perform on the bayan accordion, Angelina Galashenkova-Reed will play the domra, and guitarist John Huston showcases his picking. Soprano vocalist Martha Hollier will step into the spotlight, too. Guests will have their ears filled with an array of Russian, Ukranian and gypsy music.
4 p.m. April 14. $10 suggested donation. Dunwoody United Methodist Church, 1548 Mount Vernon Road, Dunwoody. 404-292-7176.
LAWRENCEVILLE
Aurora Swing Nights featuring Metro Jazz Club at Aurora Theatre
The Aurora Theatre audience voted and the Metro Jazz Club is listening. After tallying the results, this 17-piece big band will be playing well-known TV and movie themes, definitive Rat Pack tracks, Big Band favorites and more at this popular event. Armed with his sax, band leader Gary Dalton sets the course with Jason Joines and Amanda Richards lending their voices. Aurora Theatre’s associate producer and resident musical director, Ann-Carol Pence, hosts the proceedings and will provide some vocals of her own.
7 p.m. April 14. $18. Aurora Theatre. Free parking at 153 Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222.
ALPHARETTA
William Kent Krueger at Peerless Book Store
The popular author shuts down his computer and comes to town to mingle with fans and sign copies of his latest novel, “Ordinary Grace.” Best known for the Cork O’Connor series, this time the award-winning mystery writer steps out of his wheelhouse. This standalone book is written from the perspective of a middle-age man looking back at his transition out of childhood, the tragedy that surrounded it and the heavy truths that come along with age. In addition to signing, Krueger will chat about the novel and take questions from the audience.
2:30 p.m. April 14. Free. Peerless Book Store, 8465 Holcomb Bridge Road, Alpharetta. 770-650-7323.
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