Shared music can encourage bonding with members of your extended family. Maybe you and your grandkids have a mutual affection for the oldies, or they’ve introduced you to some new favorite artists or shows from more recent artists.
When eye rolls, laughter, and shrugs result from experiencing the other generation’s favorites, well, that’s part of bonding, too.
As a grandparent, you’re in an optimal position to plan and execute a memorable music experience in the Atlanta area. These three options will help you find a groove:
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse Live in Concert
7 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 31, starting at $70, Atlanta Symphony Hall, 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta.
Here’s an opportunity to enjoy with teen or tween Marvel or Spidey fans who would also appreciate powerful music in a symphonic setting.
The fresh approach pairs a screening of “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse” with a live concert that ebbs and flows with the plot and action. The show includes the innovative, internationally-known Broadway Sinfonietta, an orchestra of all women, most of whom are women of color.
Both the impressive Atlanta Symphony Hall and the emotional music playing throughout are reminiscent of silent films. But this performance includes a hip-hop-based score from Daniel Pemberton and a turntable commanded by a live DJ playing songs by the likes of Post Malone, Nicki Minaj and Lil Wayne.
Young and old will enjoy the animated movie’s message of resilience and everyday heroics, too. Buy tickets here.
Pop and R&B songs from Judy Browne at Old Vinings Inn
7-9 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 31, $5, Old Vinings Inn, 3011 Paces Mill Rd., Atlanta.
The Old Vinings Inn was once a small-town post office with many other incarnations over the years, but since 1990, it’s been a sumptuous Southern dining spot.
The various artists who provide live music in The Attic Bar offer a chance to enjoy the atmosphere and some tunes without committing to a full-fledged dinner feast.
Older kids at least 11 will probably enjoy the intimate setting and this particular artist, Judy Browne, the most. She sings a medley of pop, R&B, and ballads from the 1960s to recent times, covering artists from the Eagles to Adele and Marvin Green.
This musical excursion is especially recommended for grandkids who are fond of singing themselves, especially those who have just joined the choir or a middle- or high-school production. It’s a way to show them the possibilities.
Reservations are encouraged — you can enjoy the full dinner menu — but you can also take your chances on walking in to catch the music. Be sure to leave time ahead of the The Attic Bar experience for a stroll around the downtown historic era.
Sail On: The Beach Boys Tribute
8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 2, $27, Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theater, 117 N Park Square, Marietta.
Capture good vibrations from the waning summer days while sharing classic songs by The Beach Boys sung by a tribute band. Only tell the young people how old you were when you first heard these tunes if you think they can stand the shock...
While this harmonious act won’t match a big-name performer for bragging rights, the price and music are right for this concert to be an elementary or middle schooler’s first live concert.
And if they don’t cover “Little Old Lady from Pasadena,” see about sharing the “go granny go” song with the kiddos on the ride down or back.
Buy tickets here.
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