The music of contemporary classical composers often takes second fiddle to that of Bach, Beethoven and Mozart. But one of the great advantages contemporary music has over its aged peers is that since itย’s performed in its intended time, its meaning and potential are more fluid. Thatย’s especially true when itย’s considered in context with other current media forms. To demonstrate this, Musiqa Houston and the Aurora Picture Show are staging ย“Opposites Attract,ย” which combines chamber music, chamber opera and film with Pierre Jalbertย’s String Quartet #3 (performed by the Maia String Quartet), Leighton Pierceย’s experimental film Viscera and Anthony Brandtย’s chamber opera The Birth of Something. Guests can relish the performance with some local pride: Both Jalbert and Brandt are local composers, and soprano Karol Bennett is a Houston Grand Opera studio alum. 7:30 p.m. Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, 800 Bagby. For information, call 713ย–524ย–5678 or visit www.musiqa-houston.org. $10 to $25.

Fri., Jan. 11, 7:30 p.m., 2008