At the Gateway Festival Orchestra (GFO), we believe the magic of live music should be accessible to everyone in the St. Louis community. Whether we are playing a grand symphony in the summer or exploring musical history in your local library, our performances are completely free, family-friendly, and open to all. Come as you are and let the music ignite your imagination!

🎶 Upcoming Events: Fall Library Concert Series

Get up close and personal with the music! Join us for our interactive, engaging, and completely free library concert series happening this fall.

“What Makes Music Scary”
Wednesday, October 14 | 7:00 PM
University City Library, 6701 Delmar Blvd, University City, MO 63130

Just in time for Halloween! Have you ever wondered how composers use instruments and melodies to create suspense, tension, and downright spooky atmospheres? The GFO will guide the audience through how a composer can send chills up our spines just by using the elements of music.

“Where the Rivers Meet: An Exploration of the Intersection of Native American Music and Classical Music.”
Featuring Native American Flute expert, Jim Mayhew.

Saturday, November 14 | 2:00 PM, Schlafly Library, 225 N Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, we invite you to an afternoon dedicated to the rich, diverse, and vibrant musical traditions of Indigenous peoples.The Gateway Festival Chamber Ensemble and guests will play music that celebrates the influence of Native American music on the classical repertoire and explores the relationship between the two genres. 

The Rhythm of the GFO Season
We bring music to St. Louis all year long through a variety of programs:
Intimate Library Concerts (October – April): During the fall, winter, and spring, we travel to local libraries across the city to bring you focused, interactive musical explorations.

Major Summer Concerts: Every July, we pull out all the stops for our massive, full-orchestra spectaculars (like our recent hit, “Opera Unleashed”). Expect big sounds, soaring voices, and unforgettable summer afternoons.

Year-Round Educational Outreach: Our passion for music doesn’t stop at the concert hall doors. We are proud to bring our musicians into local schools and camps throughout the entire year, inspiring the next generation of listeners and creators.

Join Our Community
Don’t miss a single beat! Sign up for our newsletter below to get the latest updates on upcoming library concerts, educational programs, and our major summer events.