At an international competition like the World Cup, a match between countries with strained relations can seem to be about much more than soccer. 

Composer and bassist Florent Ghys writes pieces that blend elements of Minimalism, pop music and a dose of extravagant wit. His web site bio notes that he has a Masters degree in Arabic music. It also points out that his interests include weather reports, numbers, girls and hair dryers. Go figure.

Saturday, July 10 through Saturday, July 31

Saturdays in July means classical music at the Lasdon Park & Arboretum. Pack your picnic basket and spread out on the lawn. Gates open at 5pm.

Let's not admit that Ghana's music is great until after Saturday's game.

The Afro-electric outfit perform at the Bang on a Can Marathon at the World Financial Center's Winter Garden. Download their eclectic jam "Sankar Yaaré."

This bubbly pop trio plays the Music Hall of Williamsburg Saturday night as part of the Northside Festival. Download their effervescent track "Burn Bridges."

The jazz guitarist and his trio perform Sunday night at the Bar Next Door. Download Janoff's cool, dynamic track "Spiral."