A Choir Rooted in Community, Culture, and Song
Who We Are
Calgary Crescendo Choir is a non-auditioned adult choir based in Calgary, Alberta. Since 1997, we’ve brought together people of all backgrounds to sing in Italian and English, celebrate musical traditions, and build lifelong friendships through choral music.
As the only Italian-language choir in Western Canada, we are proud to represent a unique blend of heritage, harmony, and hospitality. Whether you’re Italian or inspired by the language of music, you’ll find a place with us.
Our Mission
We exist to promote the joy of choral singing, preserve Italian musical traditions, and enrich our community through performance, education, and collaboration.
We believe music is for everyone—regardless of language, background, or experience—and we’re committed to making choral singing accessible, inclusive, and deeply rewarding.
Our History
Since our first performance in May 1997, the Calgary Crescendo Choir has been a passionate voice for Italian music in Calgary. What began as a love for sharing Italy’s rich musical heritage soon blossomed into a nonprofit society in 2000, dedicated to cultural preservation, artistic expression, and community connection.
As proud members of the Calgary Italian Cultural Centre, we've spent over two decades bridging generations and captivating audiences—from cozy community halls to international stages. Our signature Christmas and Spring concerts anchor a year filled with cultural events, volunteer outreach, and joyful performances that celebrate Italian legacy.
We’re a multigenerational, inclusive choir welcoming singers of all backgrounds. No Italian fluency required—just a love of music and a willingness to embrace the language’s soul. Through song, we honor tradition, inspire connection, and keep the spirit of Italy thriving in Calgary and beyond.
As Alberta’s only Italian choir—and perhaps Western Canada’s—we sing not just to perform, but to preserve. Through harmony, we endure.
Charitable Activities
Beyond the stage, the Calgary Crescendo Choir Society is deeply committed to giving back. Through fundraising initiatives and community partnerships, we contribute both financially and through goods and services to causes that align with our values.
Whether supporting local organizations, volunteering at cultural events, or offering our voices to uplift others, we believe that music is not only a form of expression—but a powerful tool for compassion, connection, and change.
President
Cecilia Cupido
President’s Message Welcome to our new website! Since its founding, the Choir has united people from various backgrounds who share a passion for music and community. Through rehearsals and performances, we foster inclusion and lasting friendships. Serving as President of The Calgary Crescendo Choir for a significant number of years has been a joyful honour. Now, as we are near its 30th Anniversary, the Choir has built a large repertoire of Italian and English music, promoting Italian Canadian musical heritage. Choir members value singing, friendship, and strong community ties through both music and social events. In addition, the Society raises funds for a number of charities in the community and beyond. We remain dedicated to nurturing talent, celebrating our roots, and invite all adult men and women who love singing to join us.
Board members
Cecilia Cupido
President
Andrea Page
VP and Music Committee Chair
Lucy Ciccaglione
Treasurer
Julia Lobello
Secretary
Bianca Romeo
Director of Social Events
Domenica Labrocca
Director of Costume
Tony Scaffeo
Director of Media and Equipment
Linda Pollera
Performance Coordinator
Music Director
Gianna Read-Skelton
Professional Singer | Music Director | Educator
Gianna Read-Skelton is a Calgarian music director as well as a professional singer, actor, and dancer. She began her music education at the University of Alberta where she pursued classical voice and opera and graduated with her Bachelor of Music in vocal performance. She then continued her education in musical theatre in Edmonton at MacEwan University, graduating with her Diploma in Theatre Arts with honours. Gianna has been the soprano soloist at the Winspear Center in Mozart’s C Minor Mass with the University of Alberta Orchestra, as well as being the anthem singer for the University of Alberta graduations. In addition to performing, she has been a music director for The Honest Collective in Calgary and for StoryBook Theatre’s Spotlight program for young people. Gianna has as performed internationally in England and Italy, as well as performing across Canada in Halifax, Edmonton, and Calgary. The Calgary Crescendo Choir Society is thrilled to have Gianna as our Choir Director and we look forward to many engagements under her expertise and direction.
Pianist
Alice Rashkovska
Hello! My name is Julia, and I’m truly delighted to share my musical journey with you. Music has always been my greatest passion, and I feel grateful for every opportunity to bring it into people’s lives. I have been dedicated to music for more than 18 years, both as a pianist and as a teacher. Growing up in Ukraine, I was surrounded by music from an early age, and it shaped not only my professional path but also my identity. After moving to Canada 2.5 years ago, I was eager to continue this journey, to keep developing as a musician, and to share my passion with others. Alongside performing, I also teach piano, which allows me to inspire students and help them discover their own love for music. Accompanying singers and ensembles is a particularly meaningful part of my work, as I enjoy collaborating with others and being part of a community where music brings people together and creates something truly special.
