The Wilson’s are in Town; Ann and Nancy Wilson (Heart) at Niagara; Brian Wilson Plays Stage AE (CP’s Sun. 7/21/13)

1) Ann and Nancy Wilson are two Seattle sisters who form the basis for the band Heart. They achieved mega-success in the 1970’s and 80’s with songs “Magic Man,” “Barracuda,” and “All I Wanna Do Is Make Love to You.” Also on the bill is Jason Bonham, whose late father was John Bonham, the great drummer for Led Zeppelin. Bonham is performing his Led Zeppelin Experience. For the final 30 minutes of the concert Heart and Bonham team up for a Led Zeppelin tribute. Ann and Nancy Wilson first played together with Bonham earlier this year in an incredibly emotional experience at the Kennedy Center Honors tribute to Led Zeppelin (Robert Plant, Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones are the three surviving members of the band). It was an incredible, emotional experience. Catch them together at First Niagara Pavilion tonight. 7:30 p.m. 665 Rt. 18, Burgettstown.

2) Another Wilson is playing Pittsburgh tonight, Brian Wilson.  He was and is one of the key ingredients of the great American songbook created by the Beach Boys. Wilson is a true champion who overcame the  incapacitating challenges of mental illness to again achieve greatness through music. He is a highly talented singer, songwriter, pianist, and arranger. Performing with him is a founding Beach Boy member as well, guitarist Al Jardine. David Marks will also be playing.  Stage AE. Gates open 6:30 p.m.

3)  Drivers start your engines! Fans lower your tailgates! The green flag will drop today to start the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix championship races in Schenley Park. Today’s featured events include warm up runs (8:15 – 11 a.m.);  parade and opening ceremonies (11 – 11:50 a.m.) race heats with over 150 vintage racers (noon – 5 p.m.); international car show (9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.).  Charities benefiting from race proceeds are the Autism Society of Pittsburgh and the Allegheny Valley School. Free.

4) The Pittsburgh Blues Festival  features the best local and national blues acts. There’s fun for the whole family with food and merchandise vendors, a KidsZone with arts and crafts, and blues and games for kids. Now in its 18th year, the Pittsburgh Blues Festival is the primary fundraiser for the Pittsburgh Food Bank each year. Today’s lineup includes Shot O’ Soul (2 p.m.), The Turbosonics (3 p.m.), J.D. McPhearson (4 p.m.), theCAUSE & friends ( 5:30 p.m.), The Nighthawks with Billy Price (6:45 p.m.), and Tab Benoit (8:45 p.m.). Come on out, have some fun and support the Pittsburgh Food Bank, who help so many! Gates open at 1:30 p.m. Concludes today. Hartwood Acres Park, Hampton and Indiana townships.

5) Broadway superstar Idina Menzel will be performing tonight the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Menzel won the Tony Award for her performance as Elphaba in Wicked and was nominated for a Tony as Maureen in Rent. She also appeared in the TV show “Glee” and in a PBS special. The show promises to be a great night full of song. 7:30 p.m.  Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Cultural District.

6) Bach Beethoven and Brunch Classical Music Series, presented by the City of Pittsburgh, offers a free concert today by West Hills Symphonic Band. This concert series runs every Sunday through Aug. 11 in Mellon Park from 10:30 am to noon. Pack your own brunch basket or purchase breakfast items at the park. Fifth and Shady avenues., Point Breeze/Squirrel Hill.

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