Kids sing along with music, performed by the CGOA Sinfonietta, from the movie Encanto in 2023. Contributed photo.jpg

Kids sing along with music, performed by the CGOA Sinfonietta, from the movie "Encanto" in 2023.

THE GORGE — For nearly 20 years, nonprofit Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association (CGOA) has brought outstanding performances and musical variety to the Gorge. “Beloved Favorites and Exciting Surprises” includes all of CGOA’s ensembles and monthly events appealing to a range of music lovers and theater-goers.

The Gorge Sinfonietta performs in November, March and June. Conductor Mark Steighner has programmed works like Brahms’ “First Symphony” and Tchaikovsky’s “Romeo and Juliet,” mixed with music by female composers like American musical pioneer Amy Beach. The season begins with a concert including Sibelius’ “Finlandia,” a trumpet concerto with soloist (and Wy’east Middle School music teacher) Anders Foster, and Amy Beach’s Celtic-influenced “Gaelic Symphony.”