Priority list includes Songbook vocal competition, John Williams scores, the Elms, more

It's music, music and more music this week on the priority list.

Songbook Academy Finals

Broadway’s Laura Osnes (“Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella”), Grammy-winning operatic star Sylvia McNair, and Center for the Performing Arts Artistic Director Michael Feinstein take a back seat to some of the best high school music talent in the country as they judge The Great American Songbook Academy Finals on July 25. At the finale, the top 10 will perform two songs each. But, for a sneak peek at the rest, you can check out the master class with Feinstein and Osnes on July 22 and a Songbook Showcase featuring all 40 vying for the Top then on July 23. The Finals are ticketed but the other two events are free.

Palladium  July 22, 23, 25  Details

Movie Music of John Williams

Expect to see a few light sabers lighting the night when The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra offers a selection of works by the composer behind “Star Wars,” the Harry Potter series, and more. Selections from the full concert can be heard at a $5 lunch concert at Hilbert Circle Theatre on July 23.

Conner Prairie Amphitheatre   July 24-25  Details

The Elms

It’s been about five years since the bluesy, Seymour-rooted rock-and-roll band has performed publicly. Prior to that, it was a busy decade that included a string of albums include “The Chess Hotel,” which helped push them into the opening spot before such acts as Goo Goo Dolls and Cracker and to an appearance at Farm Aid. For this two-nighter, the band reunites to benefit Second Helpings. Fans will get to hear a different set list each night.  

The HiFi  July 24-25  Details

Also this week

Shawn Mendes plays the Lawn at White River State Park July 22. Subline with Rome follows on the July 24 with Incubus quickly trailing on July 26.

Luke Bryan brings his Dust Up Tour to Klipsch Music Center July 24.

Carlos Mencia, star of “Mind of Mencia,” performs July 23-24 at Crackers Comedy Club in Broad Ripple

Indy Film Festival continues screening at the Indianapolis Museum of Art through July 25. Strongly suggested: Catch “For Grace” on July 20.

The Cabaret at the Columbia Club features Darrian Ford singing the music of Sam Cooke July 24-25.

For reviews, features, and more visit www.ibj.com/arts