Concert 1st December 2019 at Benijofar
On 1st December 2019 Crescendo performed a variety of popular, sacred and Christmas music at Benijófar Catholic Church, Iglesias Santiago Apostol, where almost three hundred euros was raised in support of the local Benijófar community's food bank.
Crescendo were asked, as usual on this annual concert, to help make the food parcels more cheerful by donating a chocolate treat which is added to the families parcels.
This again was overwhelming as chocolate treats flowed over into a second basket, Crescendo would like to thank the public for their generosity and making the concert a success.
Flood - Red Cross Concert November 2019

When Mary President of Crescendo telephoned me to say that they were arranging for the choir to have a concert in aid of the flood victims (myself one of them) I suggested that the best place to send the money was to the
RED CROSS.
For the 4 days & nights that I was in the rescue centre, they were FANTASTIC!! Nothing was too much trouble, food, drinks, helping to find clothes to fit & so much more. Most nights I could not sleep on the army camp beds but the Red Cross volunteers were always there to make a hot drink, have a comforting chat & even hold a hand & give a hug to people who needed it.
One of them went to a lot of trouble finding someone with a basic mobile phone like mine & getting it charged up so that I could ring one of my children to tell them what was happening.
Several of the volunteers came from Barcelona & were getting up at 5am, leaving their children with neighbours, to help us in Catral. Every one of them was an ANGEL & I don't know how we would have managed without them. I know that I shall never be able to thank them enough for all they did for us.
- Margot Gay - chorister, the concert raised 1161€
Iglesia de Santa Maria Del Mar,La Zenia, 6th April2019

Crescendo International Choir performed its first spring concert Saturday, April 6 at Iglesia de Santa Maria Del Mar in La Zenia.
1,100 euros was raised at this concert, between ticket sales and free-will donations given at the end of the concert.
Part of the money raised will go towards supporting the church building fund of The Parish of the Risen Christ in La Zenia, while some of the funds will go to Caritas, to be used for needy families in the parish. Caritas is the Catholic Church’s official organization for charity and social relief in Spain.
Concert at Parroquia San Jaime Apóstol in Guardamar.
On 13th May 2018

On 13th May 2018 Crescendo performed a free entry concert at Parroquia San Jaime Apóstol in Guardamar.
For this concert a wide variety of music was performed, it was also as a charity benefit.
Thirteen songs were performed ending the concert with the choir spreading around the church singing the Blessing af Aaron to the audience.
The evening raised 234.40€ to purchase food for the local needy.
Crescendo International Choir on Friday May 11th 2018

Crescendo performed a variety of songs for an international choral fiesta all held in L'Alfaz Del Pi in the Frax foundation of Albir.
The theme of the charity fundraiser choral festival was music performed in films.
It was celebrating its 30th anniversary of hosting such events. So the concerts were envisioned to pay homage to beautiful music that can be found in films.
More than 200 singers performed at the musical fiesta.
Money raised by this event are going to Social Volunteer L'Alfaz which is responsible for managing the community food bank .
Crescendo International Choir Raises Money for Community with Christmas Concert
The Crescendo International Choir performed a well-attended concert in December featuring a wide-variety of music at the Parroquia de Santiago in Benijofar. Almost 350 euros was raised by attendees to the concert to support the Benijofar community.
Music was sung in both Spanish and English. Spanish pieces included Amapola, El Vito, Fum, Fum, Fum Campana Sobre Campana and Feliz Navidad. Some of the English songs were Imagine, Angels We Have Heard on High and an original song called Christmas Time is Here, with lyrics by Margot Gay and music composed by Antonio Guillen, the choir’s accompanist.
In addition, the choir sang White Christmas in both English and Spanish. Crescendo Choir singers are from many European countries, such as England, Ireland, the Netherlands, Germany, Finland, Denmark, among other nationalities.
The choir’s conductor is Irene Oliva, a Spanish native, who also works as a music teacher. She is accompanied by Antonio (Toni) Guillen on the keyboard. He also teaches piano and music theory.
The money raised by the concert was given to the Benijofar town council social services agency. A large basket of chocolate and sweet treats was also donated by the choir for Christmas hampers for needy families. Crescendo Choir gives several concerts a year, raising funds for a variety of causes. On November 25, 2017, for example, the choir performed a well-attended concert at Campoamor Golf Hotel. A total of €2700 was raised and donated to Pink ladies and AECC, the Spanish Association against Cancer.
Christmas 2017 at a church
Christmas Concert Campoamor Dec 2017

La Siesta Golf Society invited the Crescendo International Choir to help with a concert event to raise money for their chosen charity for 2017, Pink Ladies and AECC. It was held in the Campoamor Golf Hotel on 25 November and was well attended. All enjoyed the concert followed by a wine and tapas reception. The wonderful total of €2700 was raised which was donated to Pink ladies AECC.
Christmas Concert at Casa Verde
As usual in the lead up to Christmas, Crescendo Choir went to sing at the residential home CASA VERDE at Almoradi. This concert is eagerly looked forward to each year by both residents and staff. As well as some fun Christmas songs and carols, the choir sang several traditional Spanish songs encouraging the residents to join in which they did with much enjoyment. Irene, the choirs’ conductor chatted to everyone and Toni, as usual excelled on the piano. (awaiting photo)
Christmas Concert at Benijófar Church

It would not be Christmas unless Crescendo International Choir sang in Benijófar church! This concert was performed on Dec 11th to a packed church. There was a bucket collection at the door which raised 222euros.
This money was given to CLAUDIA who provides food for the underprivileged families in the area. As always, the choir each brought along sweets and treats for Claudia to give to the children of Benijófar.
Crescendo's Angels
As always, CRESCENDO INTERNATIONAL CHOIRS’ Christmas concert went with a swing.
Mary Priddle acted as MC once again, and when Doug Brown sang “Cornish Cream and Cider”, she recounted her time as a Cornish fisherman' s wife.
Jack Van Dam’s voice filled the hall with his version of “The Holy City” and later John Cloney sang a cappella.
All three solos were greeted with huge applause.
Comedy was provided by Mary Mitchell and Mary Sills singing (or rather, meowing), the cats duet by Rossini.
Mary and Margot appeared as 7 year old ‘angels’ to tell everyone about their school Nativity play with references to various choir members as their school mates, (Itchy Knickers and Bogey Pickers included!).
Although we now have an impressive 16 men in the choir, we would still like some more please!
Sequins All The Way

WOW! What a sparkly Christmas concert when Crescendo International Choir joined forces with Spangles Ladies Barbershop. Crescendo ladies wore their red sequined jackets and Spangles were dressed in ankle length harlequin sequined dresses.
Both choirs had several members missing due to illness, but it was a fabulous concert. Spangles sang first; then it was the turn of Crescendo, both sang in several languages with ease and confidence.
They joined together at the end to sing the choruses of “The Holy City” while Jack Van Dam sang the verses.
To end the afternoon the whole audience joined together for “Feliz Navidad”.The concert was in aid of AGE CONCERN and raised 995 euros for this very worthy local charity.
FANTASTIC CONCERT
Last Saturday 7th May Crescendo International Choir together with the Chivenor Military Wives presented a -sell out- concert. Thanks go to Torrevieja Christian Fellowship to allow us use of their hall, and Torrevieja Mens Barbershop Chorus for use of their risers. There were standing ovations and calls for Encore, encore. It was an emotional concert with tears from the audience and both choirs. But smiles at the end when the Chivenor Military Wives received €2,000 for their own charity and Crescendo International Choir received €2,000 for The Royal British Legion, Torrevieja Branch. It was with great pride that we sang two songs together, once again more tears, You Raise me Up and Amapola in Spanish which means Poppy. Afterwards we retired to a local restaurant where everybody was ready to relax. With the hope of this becoming an annual concert we bade farewell to a wonderful group of ladies and look forward to when`We’ll Meet Again’.

On Sunday 3rd April Crescendo were pleased to give a concert in aid of Benijófar Caritas The choir also donated large amounts of dried foods and bedding A varied programme of songs sung in Italian ,Maori, Spanish and English . It was held in the beautiful Cultura Center in Benijófar After the concert a retiring collection was made and 270.50€ was donated to the local Caritas of Benjófar
Christmas Concert El Paraiso 7th December 2014
Crescendo’s Christmas concert at El Paraiso on Sunday 7th December certainly put a “tingle in our fingers and a tingle in our toes” to paraphrase words from the rendition of the ‘The Rhythm of Life’.
The winter sun shone on the ladies red sparkling jackets adding yet more tingles to the jingles.
Most songs contained a message of hope, joy or peace the best of Christmas gifts. Twelve songs were interspersed with a duet, two solos and the audience joining in the Christmas carols.
Lesley Rolls entered after the interval, wearing her pyjamas and pink bows in her hair searching for “two front teeth” and wondering why “Mummy was seen kissing Santa Claus”, which created a sense of the fun element of Christmas.
This year the choir has supported Caritas charity in various local towns. Their next concert on Saturday 13th December is at Cristo Resucitado in Villajoyosa in support of that church.
The whole choir wish all their friends and supporters a Happy Christmas and a Healthy New Year.
More information at crescendo-choir.com


Concert at La Siesta Church 24th May 2014


The money raised €363, was presented to Howard Cook, La Siesta Evangelical Church Treasurer on Sunday by Lesley, Crescendo Choir Secretary.


SUN, SEA, SAND, SANGRIA and SONG People of all nationalities living locally have no shortage of the above. There are numerous choirs and groups offering a plethora of songs and music in a variety of styles. Further, this area is rich in auditoriums and cultural centres in which performances are given. Saturday March 29th was no exception with more than one musical concert on offer. For those who chose the Palacio de Musica a visiting Danish Chamber Choir of over 20 singers, Lyngby Kammerkor sang songs a cappella (without accompaniment) from the Nordic countries. A Chamber Choir is the equivalent of an instrument ensemble but uses voices, so there are often many different parts at once. Quite a FEAT – well done Lyngby! Then in complete contrast, Crescendo International Choir took to the stage and whisked the audience to the Caribbean with ‘Begin the Beguine’. “Play a Simple Melody” has a melody running against a second melody which the 7 men choristers and 27 ladies handled expertly. A group of songs made famous by Frank Sinatra and Glenn Miller were cheered by an appreciative audience. Finally, train journey to Chattanooga, Tennessee took Crescendo to their destination in song. Joined by Lyngby Choir, both choirs then sang in the Spanish Language“Sin Ti”. The accompanist, Tony Guillen made the piano literally talk. A line in the final song summed up the concert – the sounding ‘bravos ’ proof enough that the audience agreed – ‘Joyful music leads us sunward in the triumph song of life ’. Thank you for that message Irene Oliva, (Musical Director of Crescendo). Cruz Roja were the grateful recipients of a retiring collection.
Being a member of Crescendo Choir is more than just singing...you become involved with a musical family who enjoy socialising and getting to know folk from other countries. Music crosses cultural and language barriers.
On Saturday 21st September 2013 the choir with friends visited Pinoso. On arrival in the village there was a coffee break before travelling on to a finca in the pueblo of Lel. The owners, Jayson and Glenn had prepared a feast in the garden. The picture shows the choir in good voice at an evening concert in Pinosa theatre, after which 360 euros was collected for the local Red Cross
CRESCENDO’S GIFTS
Crescendo International Choir followed the initiative of the 3 Wise Men and gave the local community 3 gifts for Christmas. The first on 1st December was a programme of fun and entertainment at the packed venue of El Paraiso in Torrevieja. Amongst the Christmas songs and carols was an item by Lesley Rolls bemoaning the fact that she never made it to the altar, “Why am I always the Bridesmaid? ” which caused much merriment. Money raised from this annual event helps with the normal expense of running a choir. In fact, the public who attend mostly free concerts are the main benefactors. A retiring collection enabled the choir to donate €50 to Age Concern. For gift number 2 on the 6th December, Crescendo adopted a more sombre mood at the church in Benijófar. This was the day that Nelson Mandela had died so it was very appropriate that Martin Luther King ’s words “I Have a Dream ” should be one of their songs. A closing collection was made for Caritas who received €175. As the 3rd gift, those who attended the United Carol Service at Torrevieja Christian Church Fellowship were able to enjoy a double package with the inclusion of ‘Just Brass ’ band. Pastor Dave Bickerdyke reminded us that God gives everyone a chance to unwrap the gift of His Son at Christmas. Appropriately this was also the theme of a song included in the medley which Crescendo sang “It ’s a Birthday ” (see photograph). APANEE an Association for Children with Special Needs received €500 from the red buckets on the way out. In total during the year 2013 a total sum of €2640 has been donated to various charities by Crescendo International Choir. Surely this is a good enough reason for attending their concerts throughout the year. Watch the local press for future information, or go onto their web-site www.crescendo-choir.com. So there you have it. The Christmas message wrapped in 3 different packages. As Pastor Dave said, some folk only “do ” Christmas as a Santa event, some see it as mainly as Christian celebration. Others, manage to enjoy the turkey and tinsel but remember and appreciate the ‘Reason for the Season ’.
CRESCENDO CONCERT AT LOS MONTESINOS CHURCH – 20th APRIL
“Well done Crescendo, and well done Irene Oliva, for yet another excellent concert on Saturday 20th April.
The Uplifting ‘Gloria ’ reverberated around the delightful church of Los Montesinos which was packed to the gunnels. The sweet tones of ‘Cantique Jean Racine ’, the rousing ‘I have a Dream ’ and the wistful ‘Va Pensiero ’ were followed by the meaningful ‘I Believe ’ among others.
The old favourite and toe-tapping ‘Swinging with the Saints ’ was included as were a couple of interesting ethnic songs. Although the men were heavily outnumber by the ladies, they certainly held their own, especially when singing the ‘I Believe/Ave Maria ’ combination, and ‘Locus Iste ’ was a very fitting number for the church setting.
Margaret Jennings regaled us with ‘I ’ll Walk with God ’ and accompanist Jose Alberto played a piano solo. It was very gratifying to see such a good Spanish contingency in the audience and they certainly showed their appreciation of the evening ’s performance with a standing ovation.
Profits for the evening were donated to Church Funds. Keep up the good work, Crescendo ”
CRESCENDO INTERNATIONAL CHOIR ENTERTAINS NOSMO-KING CLUB
70 plus members of the Nosmo-King Club were entertained by Crescendo Choir at their venue in El Paraiso on the morning of Thursday 17th January. The Ladies ’ shiny red jackets added sparkle to the whole programme. A new pianist, Jose Alberto Morales Rodriguez made his debut and offered a very high standard of accompaniment, working well with the Spanish Director of Music Irene Andres. The programme opened with a Spanish song ‘Besame Mucho ’ which was indicative of the improvement in the choir ’s Spanish language skills thanks to having a Spanish leader.
Throughout the programme every word was heard clearly despite the choir consisting of 10 different nationalities. The words of a line in one of the songs outlined the need to “join our voices in unity ” which can be achieved when music is the common language. The programme was varied and included, opera, Spanish songs, musicals, folk songs, songs with a message e.g. ‘I have a dream ’, traditional, national and African and was much appreciated by the attentive audience. The choir chairman, Mary Mitchell was presented with a cheque for 100 euros at the end – the choir support various charities throughout their year.
Crescendo sings for Children ’s Band
On Saturday 3rd March, 2012, Crescendo Choir gave a concert at the Musical School in Los Montesinos in aid of the junior band to raise funds for the repair of their musical instruments. Irene Andres, the choir’s young conductor, had introduced several new pieces and besides some old favourites, Crescendo sang Puccini’s “Humming Chorus” from Madame Butterfly; “Yesterday”- The Beatles, and “Killing me Softly” - Fox and Gimbel.
Toni Guillén, Crescendo’s new piano accompanist, made his début with the choir. He showed his versatility by performing a piano solo and accompanying Sixto Herrero, Crescendo’s new Musical Director playing his saxophone. Toni is studying music composition at the Conservatoire in Murcia under Sixto, as well as harpsichord under Javier Artigas.
Eve Suffield’s beautiful soprano voice sang out an aria from Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro.
There was no entry fee but the collection at the door, which raised almost €300, was made up to €500 from the choir’s funds for this worthwhile cause.
Crescendo choir now rehearses at El Paraiso in Jardin del Mar (close to Carrefour) on Wednesdays from 6-8pm.
If you enjoy singing and would like to join our friendly group you will be made more than welcome, especially if you sing tenor or bass! Just come along to a rehearsal evening and meet the members of the choir.
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On Saturday, January 21st 2012. Crescendo ’s new Musical Director, Sixto Hererro took the choir to sing at his local church Ntra Sra del Rosario in Rafal.
The building was packed, with every available seat taken and people standing around the sides – an encouraging start for the first concert of the year.
The choir was welcomed in both Spanish and English and sang its usual mix of songs, some English, some Latin, ranging from Locus Iste to Chatanooga Choo Choo. Sixto and his pupil Irene Oliva alternated conducting the choir. Then Sixto played a very moving piece on his saxophone, dedicating it to the people of his village.
At the end of the concert, Sixto, Irene, and choir chairman Mary Mitchell were each presented with a framed picture of the church as a memento of the evening. After the performance drinks and nibbles were enjoyed by everyone and new friendships were forged.
CRESCENDO and JUST BRASS raise money for APANEE and Alzheimer ’s
The Christmas carol service at Torrevieja Christian Fellowship in December2011, although free entry, raised a huge €1,250 in buckets at the door!
Just Brass and Crescendo each received €150 for a charity of their choice, and the remaining €950 was split equally between APANEE and Alzheimer ’s.
The audience on the night, besides joining in all the favourite carols with the band and choir, had a surprise treat when Crescendo ’s new Musical Director Sixto and his trainee conductor Irene played a couple of duets on saxophone and piano. Cathy Carson sang some Christmas songs, joined in the last one by her friend Shirley. The choir sang a selection of pieces and the band showed off the talent of some of its members who played solos. Guest speakers from each of the churches said a few words.
Later in the New Year, Crescendo ’s chairman Mary Mitchell, along with concert manager Elly van der Vecht, took the money raised to the APANEE headquarters in Torrevieja where they were met by Anna-Maria Garcia and Yaci Valenzuela, and Cristina Carrillo, a psychologist from The Alzheimer ’s Association. They expressed their thanks to everyone who took part in the concert with special thanks to all who attended and gave so generously.
CRESCENDO ’S 2011 CHRISTMAS SING-ALONG CONCERT
CRESCENDO ’S first concert with their new Musical Director Sixto Herrero, was the annual ‘sing-along ’.
As always, the room at Casa Ventura was full and all the audience was in good voice. This year there were a couple of surprise items in the programme. In the first half, tenor John Dunkin played two solos on the piano to much applause.
To start the second half, Irene Oliva, the choir ’s trainee conductor, took over the piano to accompany Sixto on his saxophone. There was so much applause after their two pieces that they played another two as an encore. Sixto conducted some of the singing and Irene made her début as a conductor for the rest of the concert.
Sue Trick accompanied the choir for their numbers and also the carol singing with everyone joining in enthusiastically. Sixto talked to the audience with the aid of Sara Scargill as translator and apologized that his English is still poco. He thanked everyone for coming and said how much he and Irene were enjoying the new experience of working with an international choir.
For the fourth year running, Val Jones had organized a collection of foodstuffs from the choir and made up two huge baskets of Christmas goodies and a couple of single items for the raffle which raised over €250 for choir funds. First prize basket went to Marta Bosseloo, second basket to Joe Wallace. Both audience and choir thoroughly enjoyed the evening making a good start to the Christmas season.
Saturday 21st May 2011 - Crescendo Choir Helps Lorca Appeal
Our musical director Chas asked for any blankets we could spare, as the Salvation Army was in desperate need for the people of Lorca. The choir rose to the challenge and in 3 days collected almost a hundred items, such as sleeping bags, blankets, and towels. When the bus arrived at Quesada Arches to take the choir to Alicante it took several minutes to load all the bags! On arrival at the Headquarters in Alicante, the officers were overwhelmed by the quick and generous response of the choir members.
The concert was introduced by Major Jorgen Booth who told the audience of Crescendo ’s generosity. He showed slides of Lorca and the work that the Salvation Army is doing there, saying that food, clothes, and blankets are still needed.
The concert consisted of a wide range of music including a flute-and-piano duet by Margaret Jennings and Sue Trick, and a Chopin nocturne played by Sue Trick. Then soloist Margot Gay sang I don ’t know how to Love Him from Jesus Christ Superstar, and Pat Yardley sang Stranger in Paradise from Kismet. Chas Smith conducted this, his penultimate concert with the choir, and as always Sue Trick was ‘mistress of the keyboard ’ playing for choir and soloists. The evening closed with The Blessing of Aaron and a bucket collection was taken at the door for the Lorca appeal.
TCF carol service with CRESCENDO CHOIR and JUST BRASS December 15th 2010
The Torrevieja Christian Fellowship held what must have been the biggest and best carol service on the Costa Blanca this Christmas. The hall which holds 500 people was overflowing and extra chairs were brought in before the service started. Crescendo Choir and Just Brass were at their best and Chas Smith did all the announcements starting off by getting everyone to introduce themselves to their neighbours. Highlight of the concert was young ROLF LUPONDO who ’s voice filled the church with the beautiful words of “O Night Divine ” The concert was in aid of APANEE children ’s charity, so Chas called four children from Apanee who were at the concert, onto his podium. He persuaded them to introduce themselves then asked them to sing a carol with the delighted help of the audience. At the end the children stood at the door with collecting buckets and the huge amount of 1,610 euros was given … What a wonderful Christmas present for these special children!
CRESCENDO CONCERT at La ZENIA CHURCH December 12th 2010

CHAS ’ CRESCENDO CHRISTMAS SING-ALONG

CRESCENDO SING AGAIN AT DOLORES
Saturday 13th November 2010 saw Crescendo International Choir singing again in Dolores Church for their restoration fund, raising over 200euros in the collection at the door. Their concert was so well received
last year that they were asked back to perform a selection of their best loved pieces.
Amongst these was the Spanish “Sin Ti ” and “I Believe/ Ave Maria ”. Performed for
the first time were the new words “Living Love ” by Vivienne Gee, a choir member,
set to the music of “Poeme ” by Zdenek Fibich.
Chas Smith conducted with his usual flair, inviting everyone to join in Bohemian
Rhapsody and Unchained melody in whichever language they knew the words!
Accompanist Sue Trick worked overtime as always, playing for choir, soloists, and
performing a beautiful Chopin Sonata to a very appreciative audience.
The two soloists for the evening were both local members who live on the outskirts
of the village. Marie Sills, a regular worshiper at the church, studied music at
Trinity college of Music, London. Her lovely voice filled the church with “Art Thou
Troubled ” by Handel from his opera ‘Rodelinda ’. Margot Gay, whose previous
experience has been as an amateur in chorus and cameo parts of musicals, chose “I
don ’t know how to love Him ” from Jesus Christ Superstar.
George Bright sang the solo part in ‘All through the night ’ and Carol Durman the top
soprano line in ‘Easter Hymn ’
To finish the evening, the choir circled the church to sing their
unaccompanied “Blessing of Aaron ” the finale to a memorable concert.
CRESCENDO’S AUTUMN CONCERTS START WITH A CRASH OF CYMBALS
Crescendo’s autumn programme started with the backing of a large band, namely the AGRUPACION MUSICAL MONTESINOS. After their successful and well received concert with the band last year Crescendo International Choir were asked back to Los Montesinos to take part in their fiestas. The concert took place in the Music and Cultural School on Friday October 8th2010.
Choir members in their distinctive red and black outfits lined up outside the school, as the band marched through the town with the Fiesta Queens, and were then the first to take the stage with ‘Name that tune’ and ‘My love is like a red, red, rose’ followed by the old Glen Miller favourite ‘Chattanooga Choo Choo’. Led as always by their Musical Director Chas Smith, they next sang ‘Hallelujah’ by Cohen, the Spiritual ‘Rocka my soul’ and then the audience’s favourite ‘I believe/Ave Maria’.
There was a short break whilst the band took their positions, then this very talented band, whose members range from ten years old upward, played a Pasadoble, written by the bandleader SIXTO HERRERO, next came a selection from the musical “Chess”. The choir then joined them on stage to sing a selection from “West Side Story”.
After playing for the choir in the first part of the concert, accompanist Sue Trick said how lovely it was to sit at the back of the auditorium and listen to the choir and band together!
Momentos were exchanged between Chas and Sixto to much applause, and Crescendo were asked to come back again next year.
CRESCENDO sing at QUESADA

CRESCENDO and Q4 at TCF

CRESCENDO and JUST BRASS at TCF
Crescendo International Choir joined Just Brass for the first carol concert at the new Torrevieja Christian Fellowship building at 68. Avenida de Las Cortes Valencianas on Dec 16th 2009. The huge building was almost bursting at the seams as congregation, choir, and band joined in all the old familiar carols. Choir and band each performed on their own, giving everyone else time to catch their breath. Part way through the service there was a Christmas film show with a difference, projected onto the wall behind the band. A collection was taken for the chosen charities - Alzheimer ’s Ass. and Contra Cancer.CRESCENDO CHRISTMAS at La ZENIA CHURCH
Crescendo International Choir gave their annual Christmas concert at the church of Santa Maria del Mar in La Zenia on Sunday evening, Dec 13th 2009. Musical Director Chas Smith started the evening by asking everyone to shake hands with their neighbour and wish them “Happy Christmas ” which broke the ice and made everyone smile. Traditional carols were alternated with pieces by the choir and Bible readings, both audience and choir lifting their voices to fill the church. Sue Trick, the choir ’s accompanist, teaches music at a local school and recently brought along three of her “A ” level students to practice with the choir. Two of them came along to join in on Sunday and were introduced to the audience who gave them a warm reception.
A new piece for the choir was “Name that tune ” a medley of well known classical snippets sung in the manner of the “Swingle Singers ” (Do you remember them?), with the audience asked to count how many they could recognize …current amount stands at 19. The concert as always finished with the choir circling the church to sing “The Blessing of Aaron ” then audience and choir went downstairs to sample the lovely buffet prepared by Maggi Bray and her ladies. There was a raffle with many super prizes which raised more than 200 euros. This, with the ticket money from the concert will go towards the new multi-denominational church being built.
CRESCENDO CHOIR ’S CHRISTMAS SING ALONG
It would not be Christmas on the Costa Blanca without Crescendo ’s sing along concert!! Last years was such a success that a larger room was needed so the Hotel Cabo Cevera was used. This year, on 2nd December 2009, the audience were asked to join in the Hallelujah Chorus and the Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves from Nabucco as well as many favourite songs and carols. There was a huge basket of Christmas goodies for a raffle prize. Val Jones organized this by twisting the arm of every choir member to bring along something … …cake, pudding, biscuits, nuts etc. Audience and choir all enjoyed themselves thoroughly, getting together in the interval for a chat and a coffee. The evening ended with Crescendo ’s usual Blessing of Aaron as they stood all around the sides of the room, a lovely ending to a fun evening. Chas Smith, Sue Trick and all members of CRESCENDO CHOIR wish you all A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Crescendo sing at San Roque Church Torrevieja
The Beautiful modern church of San Roque was the venue for Crescendo ’s concert last week. Although it has not been built long, there are some repairs needed so Crescendo offered to sing at the church to help raise some money. The appreciative audience heard a variety of music including vocal solos by Marie Sills, George Bright, and Pat Yardley. Sue Trick played the lovely “Andalucia ” on the keyboard and Chas Smith conducted.
CRESCENDO AND THE HARMONISERS sing for Los Balcones Church
WOW!! And what a feast of music and song it was when Crescendo Choir and the Torrevieja Barbershop Harmonisers joined forces to give a concert at Los Balcones church to raise some money towards new windows.CRESCENDO sings for DOLORES CHURCH restoration fund

George Bright sang a lovely version of ’ ‘O del Mio Amato Ben ’ in his rich tenor voice and there were tears on many faces as Sue Trick the choirs ’ pianist played Schubert ’s Serenade. Last song of the evening was ‘Swinging with the Saints ’ which had everyone clapping and joining in. Parish priest Don Augustin Perez Nacher thanked the choir in Spanish and English then choir MD Chas Smith asked everyone there to dig deep into their pockets for the church restoration fund, which they did, raising 230 euros. The choir finished the evening by circling the audience and singing ‘The Blessing of Aaron ’. Already people in Dolores are asking when the choir will come again as they so much enjoyed the evening.
Last Concert and Meal at End of Season
Crescendo International Choir finished the season as guests of the Torrevieja Barbershop Harmonisers at a concert in Pilar de la Horadada Casa de Cultura.
The concert on Friday June 26th was in aid of AECC and the Anglican Church in Campoverde. The choir sang a selection of seven songs, mostly old favourites but with the addition of an arrangement of “I Believe ” sung by the men, with the ladies singing the Bach/Gounod “Ave Maria ” softly in the background. This number was greeted by a huge round of applause and looks like becoming one of the choir ’s favourites. Earlier in the week, the choir met for an end of season lunch at the Quesada Country Club. Rehearsals begin again on Sept 2nd at the Oasis bar in
Torretta 3.
Surprise gift for ALPE
Crescendo International choir have been rehearsing in the back room of Bar Oasis in Torreta 3 for some time. On June 10th it was the 50th birthday of Pete Pring the owner of bar Oasis & he invited all his regulars including the choir, to a free barbeque. Pete has not been charging rent to the choir so they decided that it would be a nice surprise if they gave him a birthday present of 500 euros for his favourite charity ALPE.
CRESCENDO sing for EUROPE DAY at Torrevieja Church
On Sunday May 10th, Crescendo International Choir along with quartet Soave and ladies choir Cantabile, presented a concert to raise money for the church organ fund at the church of the Immaculate Conception in Torrevieja. The concert took place after the evening mass, with most of the congregation staying to listen. The three groups sang a varied programme of music to a very appreciative audience.
Crescendo started the concert with a group of songs including a habanera.
Next came
Soave
with “Panis Angelicus ” followed by a selection of music from
Cantabile
conducted by Jennifer Morton.
Soave
then sang “A nightingale sang in Berkley Square ”and
Crescendo
finished the evening with another selection, as always conducted by their musical director
Chas Smith
and accompanied on the keyboard by
Sue Trick
. To finish, all three groups joined together for “The Blessing of Aaron ”. At the end of the evening each group was presented with a special plaque commemorating the fact that they had sung for
“Europe Day 2009". There was no charge for the concert but helpers were at the church door with buckets collecting money for the much needed restoration of the church organ. Over €350 was raised.
CRESCENDO sing at Santa Maria del Mar, la Zenia
Sunday 26th April, the Crescendo International Choir gave their fourth Spring concert at the church in la Zenia. As usual, the choir was conducted by Chas Smith and accompanied on the keyboard by Sue Trick.
The concert started with a new piece in the choir ’s repertoire, the ‘Triumphal March ’ from Aida. This was followed by ‘Any dream will do ’ and ‘Joshua ’.
The quartet within the choir, “Soave ” made up of soprano Aly, contralto Viv, tenor Lawrence, and bass Trent, then sang ‘Panis Angelicus ’ filling the church with their beautifully balanced voices.
The choir took the stage again with ‘Unchained melody ’ and ‘Locus Iste ’, and next it was the turn of trained contralto Margaret Jennings who left her wheelchair to stand by the alter and sing ‘Tristesse ’ in Italian ( better known in English as ‘How deep is the night ’)
A couple more songs by the choir, then Sue Trick played a piano solo ‘Andalucia ’ with her usual flair … suitably wearing a red Spanish shawl embroidered with black to match the new choir uniforms …. followed by the choir singing ‘Let it be ’ composed by the Beatles and ‘The Lord ’s Prayer ’. Soprano Pat Yardley then sang a pretty little Spanish song entitled ‘La cancion del Olvida ’.
The final section was started with ‘Sentimental Journey ’, a favourite with the choir, that had been specially requested by a member of the audience. We finished the concert with ‘What a wonderful world ’ and ‘Rhythm of life ’.
Each item in the programme was introduced by Mary Priddle in English, and Jennifer Morton in Spanish. Parish Priest Don Joaquin Carlos thanked the choir and everyone in the audience. The Evening was closed by Crescendo circling the congregation to sing their own beautiful version of ‘The Blessing of Aaron ’
As always there was a mouth-watering buffet laid on downstairs served by Maggi Bray and her ladies.
Don ’t miss Crescendo ’s next concert in Torrevieja Church with ‘Cantabile ’ and ‘Soave ’ on Sunday May10th at approx 20.45 after evening mass. This is a free concert they a bucket collection afterwards for the church organ fund.
For all info about the choir please visit the web-site www.crescendo-choir.com.
CRESCENDO and JUST BRASS together for RAFA “WINGS ” appeal




CRESCENDO SING WITH AGRUPACIÓN MUSICAL MONTESINOS

CRESCENDO & CANTABILE sing for Paul Cunningham Nurses

CRESCENDO’S NEW YEAR DINNER-DANCE

The choir are now settling into their new rehearsal venue at the “Oasis” bar in Toretta 3, and are busy practicing for the forthcoming concerts.
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Crescendo International Choir joins La Banda Joven de Almoradi

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History In Photos

The Crescendo International Choir, who were invited to perform in the
final concert of the Multicultural, Multi-Religion, III Palament les Religions,
were very enthusiastically received by a mainly Spanish 700-strong audience
in the University Auditorium in Alicante . The photo shows Farhang, President
of Mesa Interreligiosa de Alicante, assisting Chas Smith in translating
the Hebrew of 'Shalom Chaverin' (Peace my friends), as a 'round', with
the participation of the audience. (May 2007) Go to top

Casa de Cultura, Cuidad Quesada, Late December, 2008. Attendees make their contributions to children from A.P.A.N.E.E., the chosen charity,(Cuidad Quesada)
La Zenia Church once again host a Christmas Concert in aid of Church Funds.
Some Local Children sing Carols, (Caterina, Abby, Rhianna, Josh and Alex).


There was standing room only when more than eighty people crowded into the tanatorio chapel in Rojales for the funeral of FREDERICK GEORGE SAUNDERS. Fred was born on March 18th 1918 in Birmingham. He started work as an electrician for GEC and became a member of the Territorial Army. When war broke out he joined the Army as a Lance Bombardier and saw action in Egypt, Italy, and Cyprus. During the war he married his sweetheart Beatrice (Beatie) and in 1941 their only child Valerie was born. After being de-mobbed. Fred and Beatie bought a greengrocery shop which they ran for several years. A change of job and Fred became a paint sprayer for BSA occasionally doing small spray jobs for Lord and Lady Docker. A few years on, he went to work for Fisher and Ludlow who were later taken over by Leyland then Jaguar, working for them till his retirement. Fred and Beatie decided they would leave the Midlands and spend their retirement years in Devon, so in 1980 they moved to Brixham. A short time later Val and her husband Tom followed them to Devon with their son Tony and daughter Karen. When his beloved wife Beatie started to suffer from Alzheimer ’s and Fred was finding it difficult to manage on his own, Val and Tom bought a larger house so they could all live together. This proved to be a good arrangement but sadly Beatie died about seven years ago. Fred was keen on afternoon TV and always enjoyed programmes such as “A place in the sun ” and it was his suggestion that they all come to Spain and look for a house. They saw one being built in Catral that they liked and decided that this was the right place to live. The house was finished in July 2006 so Fred, Val, and Tom moved in bringing the family Labrador Tess with them. The large garden was a challenge for Fred as he had always had a passion for gardening and each house he lived in had one of the best gardens in the neighbourhood after his green fingers had worked their magic. Val and Tom ’s daughter Karen and her husband Lee moved to Spain shortly after, keeping this close knit family together; only Tony stayed in England. Fred loved living in Spain; the only thing he said he really missed was going round the local charity shops looking for teapots to add to his large collection.
Fred was a supporter of Crescendo and father of member Val Jones Go to top

GOLD, not JUST BRASS for Joe and Jean. Joe Wallace of “Just Brass ” and his wife Jean who is a soprano in Crescendo choir, celebrate their
Golden Wedding on August 1st. They will be in England on the actual date so held a party for their friends in Spain on July21st which was Jean ’s birthday.
Jean and Joe were both members of the Salvation Army when they met so the wedding was in the Central Hall, Uxbridge conducted by Brigadier L M Clothier. Jean wore a long brocade dress and Joe wore his Salvation Army uniform. He later swopped this for an RAF uniform, joining the band as a trombonist. They spent many years abroad but decided to retire to Spain to live in Los Montecinos.
The party was well attended and started with Jean and Joe renewing their wedding vows followed by a concert put on by several friends from the choir and band. Joe played a trombone piece specially written for him by his younger son Stuart, himself a talented musician. As Joe is a Londoner, the main part of the buffet was a dish of “bangers and mash ” with onion gravy followed by chunks of bread pudding. There was also a mouth-watering buffet and a beautiful cake made and iced by Adele and Sandra, two of Jean ’s friends in the choir.
CONGRATULATIONS and best wishes to JOE and JEAN, wishing you both many more happy years together.
CHARLIE IS STILL CRESCENDO’S DARLING!!!
The rumours are not true – Crescendo’s personable and dynamic musical director, Mr Charles Smith, is NOT retiring from Crescendo. Chas, as he is usually known, has taken the decision to retire from directing the Torrevieja Barbershop Harmonisers but will carry on guiding Crescendo to even greater heights in singing. Chas has been conducting choirs and brass bands and even light opera now for 54 years and his experience and enthusiasm has brought Crescendo to its current position as one of the foremost choirs on the Costa Blanca.
Crescendo’s music ranges from classical to jazz, from pop to religious and always sung with enjoyment in mind, both for the performers and for the listeners.
We invite you to attend one of our concerts when we are singing in your vicinity, or come along to a rehearsal at the Oasis bar Torreta 3 on a Wed between 6 and 8pm.
Crescendo celebrate their first five years as a choir at the end of September.
MARGARET JONES goes back to UK

Margaret Jones, who has been in Crescendo Choir since it started, has decided to return to the UK. She came to Spain seven years ago with her husband Lee. They bought a house in La Marina and soon had quite a collection of rescued dogs and cats. When her husband died, her neighbour Chas Smith persuaded her to try singing with the newly formed choir. This was a totally new thing for Margaret who had never sung before. She soon realized that she had a good soprano voice and has always been a very conscientious member, rarely missing a rehearsal. As her favourite piece of music is Bohemian Rhapsody, the choir sang it especially for Margaret at her last rehearsal with them. She was also given a hand made plaque with the Crescendo logo to remind her of the happy times spent with the choir. Now that Margaret has been bitten by the singing bug, she intends to find a choir as soon as she has settled in back in the UK. All members of Crescendo wish her health and happiness for the future.
CRESCENDO’S HIDDEN TALENT
Crescendo International Choir have recently discovered hidden talent among their ranks! Contralto VIVIENNE GEE has written the words for two contrasting pieces of music which the choir are learning for their forthcoming concerts.
The first is called LIVING LOVE and is set to the music of “Poeme” by Zdenek Fibich. The second one is a new Christmas poem called SING! IT’S CHRISTMAS which has been set to music in four part harmony by Crescendo’s own Musical Director CHAS SMITH. Both pieces have been enthusiastically welcomed by the members of the choir. As one choir member said “It’s lovely to be learning something completely new that no-one else has heard yet. We are really looking forward to singing them and I’m sure the audience will like them both.”
THANK YOU ADELE
Crescendo ’s own
ADELE WOOLFORD was one of the committee who organized the hugely successful Royal British Legion concert at the new theatre in Alicante on
April 2nd. To thank her for all the hard work she put in, both for the choir and the RBL, Crescendo membership secretary Phyllis Webb presented Adele with a bouquet of flowers from Chas and the choir.
Crescendo's Queen Mum Of Song retires:
Jean Townson has decided to retire from public singing at the ‘young’ age of 83.She first appeared on stage at the age of six. By the time she was a teenager, Jean was being hailed as the new ‘Isobel Bailey’ Over the years she has starred in many musicals, and sung on radio and television in variety shows with many famous stars.
Jean preferred though to stay an amateur, she married her childhood sweetheart Rowland and had two daughters. She and Rowland have been married for over 60 years and he has always been her biggest fan.
She has been a much loved and respected member of almost every singing group on the Costa Blanca since retiring here to live in San Luis with her husband in 1991.
For many years she sang with “The Silver Belles”, “Gilbert & Sullivan Society (a founder member) “Cantabile”, and “Crescendo”. She has a huge repertoire of songs and has often stepped in at a moment’s notice to fill a gap in the programme.
For the last couple of years, Jean has only sung with Crescendo, including the RBL 90th anniversary concert in Alicante in April, the day before her 83rd birthday where she was interviewed for local TV, the oldest member of the 160 strong choir.
At Crescendo’s rehearsal last Wednesday, Chas Smith the MD asked Jean if she would sing a solo for the choir…..facing them, as all they could normally see was her back as she sang. Her daughter Janice quickly provided the music for Sue Trick to play and Jean sang “Bill” from Showboat, bringing tears to a lot of eyes as she brought so much emotion to the song, with a voice that certainly belies her age!
Membership secretary Phyl Webb presented Jean with a bouquet and Choir Chairman Mary Mitchell gave her a specially made plaque from Crescendo, then it was time for a glass of Cava all round.
Jean will be singing with the choir for the last time at Chas’ farewell concert on May 25th 2011…or will she? Somehow we think this lovely lady will always be singing!!
Margot Gay(PR)

CRESCENDO SAYS ADIOS TO SUE TRICK
It was a sad rehearsal for Crescendo at the end of January 2012, when for the last time Sue Trick accompanied the choir on the piano.
Sue was presented with a lovely bouquet of flowers and a plaque thanking her for all the hard work she has put in over the years. She said that although they are returning to England to live, they will be coming to Spain regularly on holiday, when she hopes that she will be allowed to sing with the choir for a change.
Sue has been the choirs ’ piano accompanist since the beginning; seven years ago. At every concert, as well as playing for the choir, she performed a classical piece, showing her versatility as a solo performer.
There were tears in several eyes as she said her farewells before handing over to one of Sixto ’s students Toni Guillen, who has agreed to take on the task of playing for Crescendo. ADIOS Sue, all our best wishes go with you!
Cheers for Crescendo Choir - March 2012
The children of Los Montesinos junior band held their instruments in the air and said a huge Thank You to Crescendo Choir last week.
Following the successful concert at Los Montesinos Music School, Crescendo Choir’s chairman Mary Mitchell presented a cheque for €500 to Rosa, the music school’s administrator, during a junior band rehearsal. Part of the funds raised at the concert, was supplemented by a donation from the choir; money is urgently required for the repair of instruments.
The pupils begin learning to play at the age of six and can join the band at age nine where they remain until they reach thirteen, after which they progress to the senior band.
There is a desperate need for more instruments for these young children to practice, so if you have any unwanted string, woodwind, brass or percussion instrument tucked away they would love to have it. Condition is not important as instruments can be repaired.
Gerry makes 80 - Happy Birthday
CRESCENDO OCTOGENARIAN
Each month Crescendo Choir meets for a meal and get-together. On May 16th this coincided with the 80th birthday of one of its members. Around forty of us gathered at El Paraiso in Jardin del Mar for a very festive lunch. Gerry Smith, the birthday ‘boy ’ and his wife Rhona sat at the head of the table. There were several birthday cards plus a cake made by Jean Wallace. Gerry is a popular member of the choir, which he joined in 2005, as a bass singer. After the meal, John Dunkin played the keyboard for a sing-along session until the remainder of the choir arrived for rehearsal. Gerry then produced champagne and cupcakes for all. MANY HAPPY RETURNS GERRY!MAYOR EDUARDO DOLON CREATES HARMONY WITH CRESCENDO
Their title of Crescendo International Choir is made manifestly clear when you consider the members currently include, English, Irish, Dutch, German, Welsh, Danish, Swedish, Russian and a Spanish choir leader and accompanist.
Half-way through their weekly rehearsal on January 16th, whilst practising songs for the following day ’s concert at the Nosmo-King Club, the members must have thought the quest for more male singers was about to be partially satisfied as in walked 2 men – a Spaniard and a Brit. Not to be – unless the Mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolon and Graham Knight would care to audition for a vacancy? The contingent of 3 included Rosario Martinez of the Concejal de Extranjerias fulfilling a promise to pay an informal visit to become more aware of the activities of the International Community within the Torrevieja area.
Well Senor Dolon, you could be in for a very busy but rewarding time. The ex-pats who have come to share your bountiful Spanish sunshine and hospitality have brought with them a wealth of life-time experience, expertise and knowledge. We widen our own horizons as we share in a huge diversity of social and educational gatherings – right on your doorstep. What is more, a great many of these groups would desire to encourage more Spanish interest to ensure integration is a two way process. The leader of the choir, Irene Andres would encourage anyone of any nationality to join the choir (especially men). The only requirements are a tuneful voice and a commitment to attend a weekly rehearsal.
The benefits are obvious – improved language skills, a greater understanding and tolerance of cultural differences, enjoyment of all types of music, the making of new friends – the list is endless. Music is an international language par excellence. The choir meets at El Paraiso (near Carrefour) on a Wednesday morning. Pay them a visit, listen to a rehearsal and meet the leaders and members.
The mayor has led the way by his visit. Follow his lead – you may be surprised too!
Crescendo 10th Anniversary

CRESCENDO INTERNATIONAL CHOIR CELEBRATES
What would warrant a celebration cake 65 cms in length by 45 cms width? Answer: the tenth birthday party of Crescendo International Choir on the 11th October at El Paraiso.
The current Chairperson, Mary Mitchell, stressed that the increasing numbers of singers from many different countries makes their title more apt than ever. The choir director, Irene Oliva, and pianist Tony Guillen are Spanish born and bred. Members hail from all over the U.K., Holland, Germany, Belgium, Denmark, Finland and Russia. So a united nations if ever there was one – disparate in native tongue but united by sunshine and song in Spain.
Forty Seven choir members regaled their audience at the party with 10 familiar songs from their 10 year repertoire and joined their friends and family for a meal. A hundred people in all enjoying fellowship and food provided by Alberto and his staff, who later received flowers and gifts of gratitude for providing a practice venue, refreshments and extra catering when required.
Mary Priddle created Crescendo and persuaded Chas Smith to become the first musical director with Sue Trick as the pianist. Since then Irene has honed her conducting skills and, as Chas said in his after dinner speech, the choir is currently in good hands. More than one speaker mentioned the amount of money that has been raised for various charities.
Crescendo International Choir is a 4-part choir – soprano, alto, tenor and bass. Of the 47 who sang at the party, the “lower end” had only seven members, 6 men and 1 lady. Therefore it goes without saying if you are a man with a tuneful voice then:-
CRESCENDO INTERNATIONAL CHOIR NEEDS YOU!


Following the very successful concert on May 7th when Crescendo International Choir joined with Chivenor Military Wives, not only was an amazing €4,000 shared between the two choirs but an additional allocation of money raised via the grand rafffle and the bucket collection showing the full appreciation of the packed house having enjoyed the wonderful concert.
The photo below shows Crescendo President Mary Mitchell presenting €200 to Geof Gosden on behalf of Torrevieja Barbershop Harmony group for their charity in thanks for the loan of the risers..
CRESCENDO says ‘so long, farewell’ to LESLEY

At choir practice on Friday everyone said a fond farewell to Lesley Rolls. She and her husband Stuart have decided to return to England after more than ten years. Lesley has been a staunch member of the choir throughout her time here, for many years choir secretary and a keen committee member. She will be remembered also for the comedy songs she sang at Crescendo’s own Christmas fundraising concerts. Stuart, although not a singing member, has supported the choir in many ways. The choir presented Lesley with a beautiful china fruit dish. We wish her and Stuart all the best for the future and hope that it will not be too long before they return for a visit.
CRESCENDO INTERNATIONAL CHOIR donate to DEBRA

Crescendo’s treasurer Mags Vaughn together with Helen Tudor presented 50 euros to the Debra Butterfly Children Charity at their Peublo Bravo shop. This shop was opened nine years ago by Anne Wylie to help children in Spain, although the charity itself is worldwide. Their shops in La Marina and Pueblo Bravo welcome all donations from bedding to bric-a-brac, fashion to furniture, as well as cash donations.
Concert To Save Lives
Music lovers were out in full force to support Crescendo International Choir for their concert at Torrevieja Christian Fellowship hall at 7.30pm on Saturday 4th March 2017 when they sang to raise money for the Ugandan charity “Music to save lives”.
The concert was arranged by choir member Mary Priddle when she learned about this charity which is run by Elisabeth Michot, helping children in an orphanage to learn social skills and self respect through song and dance.
After a medley of ‘swing’ songs by the choir, Elisabeth gave a short presentation with colour slides showing many ‘before and after’ pictures of the children. Several have now gained university degrees and others have jobs in the medical profession and law.
This is a country where money can be made to stretch a long way so every cent of the 1,150euros raised from tickets, buckets, and raffle will be put to good use. There was another selection of popular songs, some in Spanish, from the choir, ending with “Thank you for the music” by Abba, then the African marching song “Siyahamba.”
Mary Mitchell, the choir’s president then gave Elisabeth a ceramic plate with “Crescendo” on it to take back to Uganda.
Pastor Roy from TCF is retiring soon so Cresendo’s Musical director Irene also gave him a plate to remind him of the many concerts held in the venue. Pastor Roy thanked everyone then handed the 150 euro hiring fee for the concert to Elisabeth for her charity.
The afternoon was rounded off by the choir singing their “Blessing of Aaron”. CDs of the children singing and small items made at the orphanage were on sale in the foyer afterwards. These raised another 200 euros, bringing the grand total to €1,500.
A Busy Time. April2017


BUSY TIME FOR CRESCENDO
April has certainly been a busy month for CRESCENDO CHOIR.
On April 7th 2017 they gave their six monthly concert to the residents and staff of Casa Verde in Almoradi.
This is always eagerly awaited as the elderly residents love to join in with the traditional Spanish songs which the choir always sing for them. Top favourite is “Amapola” which means poppy. This time it was so popular that the choir had to sing it again.
The following Friday at rehearsal in El Paraiso restaurant, Mary Mitchell, choir president, was delighted to hand over a cheque for 100 euros to Jean McNary.
Jean is a member of the Torrevieja Hospital Fellowship who provide drinks, cakes, and sweets to outpatients of Torrevieja hospital receiving all day chemo treatment. This is completely funded by donations and, as several of the choir members have received this treatment, it was by way of being a little ‘thank you’ from the choir.
As it was Good Friday, Irene the choir’s MD did not have to rush away to her teaching job in Alicante, so it was decided to stay at the restaurant for tapas and a chat.
On Friday April 21st the choir will be singing at Benejofar church. This is a free concert starting at 7pm but there will be a bucket collection in aid of church restoration.
Crescendo Choir Back to Rehearsals for Spring Concerts
By Nancy Klein
Do you like to sing and like to help needy groups in the wider community? Well, I have the perfect activity for you. That is Crescendo Choir. We are a friendly group of people made up of Sopranos, Altos, Tenors and Basses. We sing a wide variety of songs ranging from musicals to spirituals, from pop to classical and all types in between. The choir practices Fridays from 9:30 to Noon at the Bar El Paraiso, Urb. Jardin del Mar (close to Carrefour), in Torrevieja.
Last year, we gave 6,623 Euros to different charities in the Orihuela Costa community. And if you don’t fancy yourself a singer but love music, you can come to one of our free concerts. We will be having them in the area several times in May and once in early June. You can enjoy the music and then if you feel so inclined donate on your way out into the retiring bucket collection. More details about the upcoming concerts will follow in future articles in this publication.
Now if you are not a singer and don’t really enjoy concerts either, but want to find a way to raise money for a worthy cause, why don’t you contact us? Maybe we can give a concert and raise money for your worthy cause? The web site includes a contact page with the names of the choir’s leadership team and it includes their roles and email addresses.


Ode To Dallas
It’s time I think for an ode to DallasAs her sudden demise really seems quite callous
She was a goodly mum and a loving wife
Who enjoyed leading a really full life.
She loved to act and play her part
And so it was from the very start
She used her lovely soprano voice
And sang in choirs of her choice.
In Velvetones and G&S
There her talents she could express
And as one of the fat fairies three
With Barbara and Sue opened Iolanthe.
When G&S folded and came to an end
GASPS was formed those friendships to extend.
With holidays in the Canaries and cruising the Med
We had a great time it must be said.
Her voice was often heard ringing
As in Crescendo and Vivace she was singing.
She loved her time with Studio 32
And most recently sang with Andante too.
Singing, you see, so enriched her life.
Despite the health problems that caused her strife
She greeted everyone with a beaming smile
That all will remember for many a while.
She was always there a hand to lend
To so many she was a true friend.
And so it is she will be greatly missed
As she’s played her last part in life’s cast list.
Let’s raise a glass to Dallas Myers
Who sang with friends in different choirs
And whose life was always spent
With love and every good intent.
Sue Woodward-Prior 9/4/2018
In April 2018, just over 200 Euros was raised at the end of a Crescendo concert at El Paraiso Café in Torrevieja. This money was split between two organizations supported by Dallas Myers, a choir member who recently passed away. They are Age Concern, a volunteer-run group for people over 50 located in Torrevieja, and the Heart Foundation of the United Kingdom. The focus of this foundation is do what it can to help end heart disease.
Here money is being given to two charities at El Paraiso Café in Torrevieja, where the choir rehearses. Pictured from left to right are Maureen Payne of Age Concern, Mary Mitchell (President of Crescendo International Choir), Jeff Myers (husband of Dallas Myers) accepting funds on behalf of the Heart Foundation of the UK, and Coby Overdijk (Treasurer for the choir).
Meal at La Herradura
Choir members enjoying a delicious meal out at La Herradura Resturant in Los Montesinos after Friday 18 th May morning rehearsals
Benijofar Concert 26th May 2018
At Benijofar Casa de Culture, Crescendo International Choir performed a fundraising concert. In addition to the songs already noted, two of the other songs performed were the Brazilian tune Balaio and The Girl from Ipanema, a song that refers to a popular beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. John Cloney sang a solo as part of the performance of this melody. Concert attendees, many of whom were Dutch, donated more than 200 Euros after hearing the concert. This money was given to Social Services of Benijofar to buy non-perishable food items for about 50 needy individuals and families in town.
Claudia Frank and partner Brian Helliwell have volunteered for the last six years raising money for needy Benijofar families and going to the supermarket to buy food that is then distributed by a social worker from the city of Benijofar. They also help provide clothes, shoes and school supplies to needy individuals and families in Benijofar.
When Frank and Helliwell go to the supermarket to help needy families, which they do at least twice a month, they select one of each item they want to buy and then talk to the store manager about the actual amount of each item they would like delivered to the food pantry. In most cases, 50 of each item are purchased.
Here is Claudia Frank and partner Brian Helliwell. They are standing in front of some of the food they bought for needy families from money donated by Crescendo International Choir.
Kenn Webb - Memmorial
We say a sad farewell to Ken Webb.
Ken was always a strong supporter of Crescendo and an all round worker for the smooth running of the Choir. As he was not a Singer in Crescendo, he was ready to help in the background whatever task was asked of him. He moved the piano from rehearsal building to concert venues, sold raffle tickets for our fundraisers and he was a donation bucketeer at concerts collecting monies for charities. In Toni’s early years with Crescendo, Ken sorted out his music for concerts and even turned the pages as Toni played.
Also, in the photograph is Gerry’s wife Margaret and ‘Friends of Crescendo’ secretary Helen Tudor. The Royal British Legion was Phyl’s chosen charity for the collection. His support to his wife Phyl was outstanding in all her commitments, as committee member of crescendo and other clubs .
Phyl´s words for Ken are this: “He was her shoulder of support in all their 59 years of marriage, She will miss him greatly, and her prayers are that he is resting peacefully with her love".
God Bless you Ken from Phyl and all Crescendo members.
Mary Priddle a founder member is returning to uk
Crescendo choir members sang Christmas songs and carols together on 12th Dec 2020, at the outdoor patio of Rincon de Miguel, a lovely Resturant and bar in Los Montesinos
The choir sat in a socially distanced manner wearing masks.
Near the end of the singing, members stopped to say farewell to founding member Mary Priddle, who with Chas Smith formed the choir in 2004, on her idea of a mixed voice choir.
Mary is retiring to Plymouth England for health reasons.
She received flowers and a gift from choir and will be sadly missed.