In this episode of “Classical Music on the Cheap”, we explore concerts that fit right into your weekday lunch hour. For those who work in downtown Seattle, there’s a wealth of midday events happening just steps away from your office. These hour-long concerts are a great way to sample classical music in bite-sized portions. The best part? All of these performances are completely free.  So grab a sandwich and coffee from the corner cafe, and let’s check out our options.

Sherman Clay Pianos presents a free piano concert every Thursday at 12:15pm in their showroom just around the corner from Westlake Center. The next recital in the series is on September 27 and features a program of British music performed by Janet Anderson on piano and Nancy Kirkner on English handbells.

Head to the historic Daniels Recital Hall at Fifth and Columbia for themed programs of popular audience favorites. These free noontime concerts are held on the last Thursday of each month. “Music of the Americas”, the next performance in the series, is on September 27. Pianist Jensina Oliver presents works by Joplin, Gershwin, Bolcom, Ginastera, and Piazzolla.

Members of the Ladies Musical Club of Seattle present a free noontime concert at the Seattle Art Museum on the first Thursday of each month. On October 4, pianist Janet Anderson and English handbell artist Nancy Kirkner perform the same program of British music that they’ll play this week at Sherman Clay Pianos. In November, oboist Gail Perstein, soprano Frances Garcia, and pianists Asta Vaicekonis and Taotao Liu will take the stage.

The Central Library is another popular venue for Ladies Musical Club performances. These free monthly concerts are held at noon on Wednesdays. The next concert in the series is on October 10 and features traditional Welsh folk songs as well as piano works by Scriabin and Respighi.