Sempre Crescendo is a student orchestra and choir based in the historic heart of Leiden. Founded in 1831, it is one of the oldest student music associations in the world. With nearly two centuries of history, our association is steeped in traditions and rituals. In the current year, we are celebrating our association’s 195th anniversary: a major milestone!
Every Thursday evening, the choir and orchestra rehearse under the guidance of professional conductors David de Goede and Albert Jan de Boer. Rehearsals take place from 20:00 to 22:30 at ‘Minerva’, located at Breestraat 50 in Leiden. After the rehearsal, members gather in our beautiful Salon to unwind and enjoy each other’s company – often accompanied by a well-deserved beer.
The orchestra and choir regularly perform together, presenting at least three concerts each year: the Burgerijconcert and Diesconcert (on the 4th and 5th of December 2026), and the Voorjaarsconcert in the spring of 2027. Every two years, Sempre Crescendo embarks on an international tour, performing in historic venues and churches across Europe.
Our association welcomes anyone with a passion for music. Please note however that our working language is Dutch. If you would like to learn more or get in touch, you can reach us at bestuur@smgsemprecrescendo.nl
