Crescendo Operatic Society is a transformative force in the world of opera - championing accessibility, inclusivity, and innovation while honouring the timeless beauty and emotional power of the art form.
Led by Artistic Director Dolores Scott, Crescendo is dedicated to providing opportunities for singers of all skill levels and ages, including those with little or no experience. We offer a welcoming platform where every aspiring artist - from the curious beginner to the seasoned performer - can engage deeply with opera through hands-on rehearsal, production, and performance. Our immersive learning environment fosters growth, creativity, and a deep passion for the arts.
Mentorship and professional development are at the heart of our work. Experienced performers have the opportunity to explore new roles, broaden their artistic portfolios, and support emerging talent. Our mentorship model builds bridges between generations of singers and fosters a nurturing, collaborative community.
Crescendo is equally committed to building new audiences and expanding the reach of opera. We produce and perform “pocket operas” - truncated, imaginative versions of well-known works - using narrators and creative staging to make opera more engaging and accessible. These productions are perfect for newcomers while preserving the emotional impact and musical brilliance that define the genre.
A cornerstone of our work is our children’s chorus, which introduces young voices to operatic repertoire, stagecraft, and storytelling. Through music and performance, we help children build confidence, develop teamwork, and discover a love for the performing arts that lasts a lifetime.
Crescendo Operatic Society began as the Young People’s Opera Society of B.C., founded by Patricia Dahlquist—a Juno Award-winning performer and visionary educator. Patricia co-wrote two operas, The King Who Wouldn’t Sing and Spirit Moon, with music director George Austin, providing meaningful performance opportunities for youth across British Columbia. Her pioneering work laid the foundation for Crescendo’s inclusive and artistically rich community.
Today, under Dolores Scott’s leadership, Crescendo Operatic Society has evolved into a dynamic, intergenerational community of artists, mentors, and audiences - united by a shared belief: opera is for everyone, and every voice deserves to be heard.
...back to home page