Events Oct. 11-13: Stories From the Mine, Baseball Americana and the Music and Arts of Japan

This week, come to a panel discussion with the Chilean miners, a talk about baseball, and join in an evening of Japanese culture

Come hear Yumi Kurosawa play the koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument.
Come hear Yumi Kurosawa play the koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. Photo courtesy Freer Gallery

Tuesday, October 11 Stories From the Mine

At the exclusive world premiere of Smithsonian Channel’s documentary Chilean Mine Rescue, get an intimate look at life down in the mine during the 69 days waiting for rescue. Following the film, which features exclusive interviews and never before seen footage, Chile’s Minister of Public Works and two of the miners will participate in a discussion, telling their personal stories from the world-famous event. Free, documentary at 7 p.m., discussion at 8. Natural History Museum, Baird Auditorium. (The documentary will premier on the Channel on Thursday at 8 p.m.)

Wednesday, October 12 Baseball Americana

Drawing upon the world’s largest collection of baseball illustrations and artifacts, Baseball Americana: Treasures from the Library of Congress is a richly illustrated guide to the national pastime. The book features vintage baseball cards, early photographs of legendary players and ballparks, advertisements and newspaper clippings. Come meet authors Harry Katz, Frank Ceresi, Phil Michel and Susan Reyburn to get your own copy signed and discuss the book. Free. 6 to 7 p.m. National Portrait Gallery, bookstore

Thursday, October 13 Music and Arts of Japan

Join the Lark Quartet for an evening of art and music of Japan. A pre-concert tour of the exhibition Seasons: Arts of Japan will present an insider’s view of the extensive show featuring Japanese lacquer ware, ceramics and calligraphy. Then, the acclaimed quartet will perform composer Daron Hagen’s new concerto, as well as several solo pieces for the koto, a traditional 13-stringed Japanese instrument. Concert tickets are free and can be reserved online (for a handling fee) or in person starting one hour before showtime on a first-come, first-served basis. Exhibition tour at 6:45, concert at 7 p.m., Freer Gallery, Meyer Auditorium

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