1. Dive into Chicago’s contemporary classical scene
Rock, EDM, hip-hop and jazz musicians are well represented in Chicago, but don’t overlook the city’s robust contemporary classical music community. The inaugural Ear Taxi Festival showcases these remarkable Chicago-based talents. (Harris Theater for Music & Dance, 205 E Randolph St, shows beginning at 5:30pm. $20-$25)
2. View a home-grown art exhibition
You probably know Chicagoan Wasalu Jaco as his hip-hop stage alter-ego, Lupe Fiasco, but his visual art is just as impressive as his performances. See his latest exhibition of paintings in Jefferson Park. (Ed Paschke Art Center, 5415 W Higgins Ave, 10am-7pm. Free)
3. Catch some great indie rock
The band formally known as Viet Cong (now called Preoccupations) plays Thalia Hall tonight. The name might be new, but the band still specializes in melodic post-punk that will get your fist pumping. (Thalia Hall, 1807 S Allport St, 9pm. $20)