Globally acclaimed classical concert pianist Frank Wiens returns to Conkling Hall 8 Methodist Hill Rd, Rensselaerville, New York 12147. Selection of music from or inspired by Spain. 7:30 p.m. Tickets at the door: $15 Students $5 Under 12 free.

Re-enactor and balladeer Linda Russell performs in the Berne-Knox-Westerlo secondary-school auditorium to present “A History of American Women in Song.” 7 p.m.

Barbecue on Thursday evening, Oct. 18, from 3:30 until sold out or 6:30 pm at the latest. It will be at 678 NY RT 9W, on the East side of RT 9W, Glenmont, NY 12077.

Jumpstart Your Italian Genealogy on Oct. 17 from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the American Italian Heritage Museum & Cultural Center at 1227 Central Ave., Albany, NY 12205. People often ask themselves, “I know my ancestors existed but how do I find them?” What do you do if you never asked your grandparents where they were born? Instructor John Capano will provide information on internet resources to find these lost ancestors and new, living relatives you never knew existed. Bring your own laptop or tablet device. Reservations by October 14th a must. Call (518) 435-1979.

Old Songs, Inc. presents Ustad Shafaat Khan. Friday, Oct. 12 at 7:30 pm. Tickets: $25. 37 S. Main Street, Voorheesville, NY. Information and Tickets: 518-765-2815 or online at oldsongs.org

The block party at Faith Journey Fellowship, 92 Lower Copeland Hill Rd. Feura Bush, NY. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Octagon Barn Star Party and Lecture on Friday, October 12, 7 pm. Knox Octagon Barn, 588 Middle Rd, Delanson, NY 12053, Albany County. Tonight’s lecture:  Ralf Schauer, Schenectady County Community College “From Viking to Curiosity, 40 Years of Robotic and Rover Exploration of the Red Planet Mars”

The Albany Pine Bush Preserve will host its annual Smokey Bear Day on Monday October 8, from 10 am – 2 pm at the Discovery Center..

Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy Fall Fundraiser. 5:30 p.m. NYS State Museum, Albany.

“DNA and Genealogy: Powerful Tools to Discover Your Family History” New Scotland Historical Association. At our first program of the season Lisa Dougherty, professional genealogist, will discuss how you can discover more about your ancestry and yourself. 7:30 pm at the Wyman Osterhout Community Center in New Salem on Old New Salem Road, Voorheesville, NY 12186.