Going out

Renaissance band: Piffaro-The Renaissance Band, modeled after the bands in 14th-17th century Florence, performs works by Firmin Caron, Alexander Agricola and Heinrich Isaac, all on instruments of the period. 8 p.m. today, Robert J. Werner Recital Hall, University of Cincinnati, free. 556-4183.

Art opening: Carl Solway Gallery opens Photographic Edge, a group show of nationally and internationally known photographers curated by the renowned collector Cal Kowal, noon-5 p.m. today, 424 Findlay St., West End. 621-0069.

Movie buffs: Local celeb and former American Movie Channel host Nick Clooney signs his new Movies That Changed Us. 1 p.m. today, Joseph-Beth Booksellers, Rookwood Pavilion, Norwood. 396-8960.

Murder mystery: It's murder most foul in Stir Slowly 'Til the Plot Thickens, a chef-inspired murder mystery and dinner theater. 7 p.m. today (cash bar opens 6:30 p.m.), Manchester Inn, 1027 Manchester Ave., Middletown, $24.95 includes chow. Reservations: (513) 423-2877.

Staying in

TV pick: HBO hopes to conjure up a big audience for its premiere of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (8 p.m., HBO).

TV critic John Kiesewetter says it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas earlier and earlier, with Christmas with Tony Bennett - Behind the Scenes (8 p.m., Hallmark Channel), a half-hour special about the singer's first holiday album in nearly 35 years.

Planning ahead

24 hours out: Renowned pianist Kemal Gekic brings 10 magical fingers to town for the Xavier Classical Series. 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Gallagher Student Center, XU, Evanston, $17-$19. 745-3161.

48 hours out: The Year Round Gardening Series hauls out the holiday goodies for a session of tips on decorations using fresh flowers, pine cones and greens. 7 p.m. Monday, Monfort Heights Branch Library, 3825 West Fork. 369-4472.

A week away: PNC Festival of Lights flips the switch next Saturday at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Avondale, $6-$11.50. 475-6199.

E-mail jknippenberg@enquirer.com