On April 26, the stage will come alive at the Arts Commons Jack Singer Concert Hall in Calgary for CRESCENDO, a one-of-a-kind concert featuring some of Alberta’s top vocalists, accompanied by a full symphonic orchestra, a rock band and a massive choir.
In past years, CRESCENDO audiences have been treated to renditions of hits from artists like Billie Eilish, Aerosmith, Adele, Coldplay, Elton John and Queen, crafted into a stunning music and storytelling experience.
This year, the event’s billing includes Calgary’s own award-winning Kaiya Gamble — one of two Canadians invited to audition on Season 22 of American Idol. Gamble went from an audience member to the CRESCENDO stage in 2024, and she’s excited for the audience to hear this year’s array of songs and performances.
“I remember watching for the first time, and my jaw was basically on the floor,” she says. “CRESCENDO will make you feel every emotion there is — it’s a beautiful experience where music connects us.”
In addition to the top-tier musicianship, CRESCENDO weaves in personal stories about mental health, shared live from the stage. The show supports mental health programming and research for young people and their families at the Alberta Children’s Hospital and The Summit: Marian & Jim Sinneave Centre for Youth Resilience. Thanks to generous community support through the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation, The Summit opened in 2023, providing a warm and welcoming one-stop resource dedicated to helping children and teens struggling with mental health issues.
“Stories from those with lived experiences around mental health are the heart and soul of CRESCENDO,” says show creator John Cameron of A John Cameron Experience.
“Using music to help support the youngest in our community with their mental health is really incredible,” he says. “The musical term ‘crescendo’ means gradually getting louder and louder, and that’s what we’re doing here — getting louder and louder about the importance of mental health.”
Avenue Calgary readers receive 15 per cent off tickets with the code INSIDER. Tickets also grant access to the event afterparty, where the good times will keep rolling with a live DJ, snacks, a cash bar and a chance to meet the performers.
To get your tickets, visit artscommons.ca/whats-on/crescendo-2025.
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