classical

This weekend will feature a sort of mini William Bolcom festival, courtesy of the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society. The American composer and pianist has had a career of such variety and energy that he is hard to categorize as an artist. He was one of the leaders in the revitalization of ragtime, through his series of recordings of the music of Scott Joplin. His own compositions display a range of influences, but always in the guise of sparkling textures and superb craft. Sunday evening, the great Guarneri Quartet, joined by Philadelphia Orchestra principal oboist Richard Woodhams, will give the world premiere of his Serenata Notturna. The day before, Bolcom will be heard in what is perhaps his best known role, as accompanist to his wife, Joan Morris. Bolcom and Morris, as they are known around the world, have been doing their cabaret act for many years, including the last seven in a row in Philadelphia. This season's program focuses on American songs from the 1920s and '30s.

Bolcom and Morris, Sat., Oct. 22, 8 p.m., $10-$21, Field Concert Hall, Curtis Institute of Music, 1726 Locust St., 215-569-8080; Guarneri Quartet, Sun., Oct. 23, 8 p.m., $10-$22, Perelman Theater, 300 S. Broad St., 215-569-8080.