Good evening, everyone, and a very warm welcome to “A Golden Harmony” as we celebrate 50 Years of Our Musical Society!

What a truly momentous occasion it is. Tonight, we gather not just as members and friends, but as a family united by the universal language of music, to celebrate a remarkable milestone: the 50th Anniversary of our beloved Collegium Musicum!

Fifty years. Half a century. It’s a span that encompasses countless melodies, harmonies, and rhythms that have resonated in this part of Spain. Think back to where it all began – a small group of passionate individuals with a shared dream, a simple desire to make music together. And look at us now! A vibrant and thriving truly international community, still bound by that same love of music.

Tonight, I especially want to acknowledge and thank those who were present at the very beginning, the pioneers who laid the foundation for everything we enjoy today. Their vision, dedication, and unwavering commitment have shaped the very soul of our society. In particular we have to acknowledge the 2 Annemaries ; Annemarie Kater who was the founder and Annemarie Philipps who was our Musical Director for so many years. Some of the members here tonight will remember those early days; amongst the long-standing members is Driekje and also the two past Presidents – Benedicte and Brigitte.

Over the past five decades, our Society has been more than just a collection of musicians. It has been a place of learning, of growth, of friendship, and of shared passion. We have given countless performances including many grand orchestral concerts; we have nurtured talent, inspired creativity, and brought the joy of music to countless audiences on this coast.

These moments, big and small, are the threads that weave the rich tapestry of our history. They are the memories that bind us together and remind us of the profound impact music has on our lives and our community. ….. Some of those memories are not entirely pleasant …. (Do you remember the look of horror on my face in the Bass soloist’s rendition of Tuba Mirum in Mozart’s Requiem a few years ago???) …. but mostly we remember the joyous moments and the reverberating applause of our audiences.

Today, as we celebrate this golden anniversary, (cliché here) we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. We inherit a legacy of musical excellence and a strong sense of community. But our journey doesn’t end here. As we look to the future, we must continue to embrace new challenges, to foster the next generation of musicians, and to ensure that the joy of music continues to flourish within our society for many years to come.

The success of our Musical Society is not the work of any one individual, but the collective effort of many. I want to express my sincere gratitude to all the musical directors, past and present, for their artistic vision and guidance.

We are fortunate to have been supported by generous Patrons and Sponsors and have been so lucky to have received fantastic support from our Honorary President, Count Rudi von Schoenberg and Princess Marie-Louise of Prussia

…All of the  committee members and volunteers, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make everything happen.

…To all of you – our incredibly talented members, whose passion and dedication bring our music to life.

…To so many professional musicians who have supported our music-making over the years

… Our families (many of whom have to endure your practising at home) and our friends who are always there to cheer us on and of course, our wonderful audiences, whose appreciation fuels our passion and makes our performances so meaningful.

Tonight, let us celebrate not just the past 50 years, but also the bright future that lies ahead. Let us raise a glass to the enduring power of music and to the incredible journey of our Collegium Musicum. May our harmonies continue to resonate for many more years to come!

Thank you.

 And here’s to the next 50 years!

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