The Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association presents
Swing Into Spring
With the CGOA Jazz Collective Big Band
Friday, May 23 7 PM, Sunday, May 25, 2 PM
Wy’east Middle School Performing Arts Center
3000 Wy’east Rd, Odell OR
The CGOA Jazz Collective Big Band is thrilled to Swing into Spring, two unmissable performances on Friday, May 23 and Sunday, May 25. Join the band for an exhilarating journey through the heart of big band jazz, with a repertoire that spans timeless classics and contemporary works, brought to life with the band’s signature energy and passion.
The program kicks off with the Ray Brown classic "The Opener," followed by the soulful "Emancipation Blues," by Ray Brown, and a reimagined 1919 classic, "Alice Blue Gown," also arranged by Brown.
A highlight of the concert is the world premiere of "Railroad Ramble," a piece commissioned by the Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association for the Jazz Collective Big Band in 2025, written and arranged by Portland-based composer Jessika Smith. Inspired by the historic railroads along the Columbia Gorge, Smith shares, “My husband and I got married at the Hood River Hotel, and frequently head over for weekend getaways. Our almost-3-year-old son has quite an obsession with all things TRAIN, so the piece was a pleasure to work on!”
Funds to commission the new arrangement by Jessika Smith were provided by the CGOA Jim MacMillan Award, which annually celebrates the original work of female composers from the Pacific Northwest. Jim MacMillan was a multi-talented CGOA ensemble performer and CGOA board president.
The Sunday performance at 2 PM on May 25 also includes inspiring opening selections by The Dalles High School Jazz Band, showcasing the next generation of jazz talent. The band is directed by Mic Kelly, who also plays in the Jazz Collective. Additional music by Frank Mantooth, Buddy Rich and others rounds out the Jazz Collective setlist, including the newly composed “Railroad Ramble.”
Tickets and information about CGOA can be found at gorgeorchestra.org.
CGOA offers discounted $5 tickets at the door for SNAP cardholders and FREE tickets for all students with high school or college ID. Regular ticket prices are $25, or $20 for CGOA members.
The Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and presenting musical performances of the highest quality in the Columbia River Gorge region. With a commitment to artistic excellence and education, CGOA brings the joy of music to audiences of all ages.
Also check out other Entertainment events in Odell, Music events in Odell, Performances in Odell.
