Pink, Powerful, Orchestral & Historical! Crescendo! 2026 Brings Pink Martini to the Stage with Sinfonia Gulf Coast
Crescendo! 2026 is set to strike a bold new chord as Pink Martini joins forces with Sinfonia Gulf Coast for a one-of-a-kind live orchestral performance — a first in the history of the beloved annual fundraiser.
The Crescendo! Signature Main Event takes place Sunday, March 1, at 3 p.m. in the Magnolia Ballroom at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. The afternoon promises a milestone moment for the region’s arts scene, marking both the first time Sinfonia Gulf Coast has performed live at Crescendo! and what is believed to be the first full professional orchestra ever staged in the Magnolia Ballroom.
Internationally acclaimed and delightfully genre-defying, Pink Martini has spent more than 30 years captivating audiences around the world. Often described as a “little orchestra,” the ensemble blends classical, jazz, Latin, and vintage pop into concerts that feel equal parts elegant and exuberant. Performing in more than 25 languages, Pink Martini’s shows are joyful, theatrical celebrations that invite audiences of all ages to join the party.
Founded by pianist Thomas Lauderdale, the group is frequently fronted by powerhouse vocalist Storm Large, whose bold, genre-crossing style and dramatic stage presence have earned worldwide acclaim. Pink Martini has performed at legendary venues including Carnegie Hall, the Hollywood Bowl, Royal Albert Hall, and the Sydney Opera House, consistently praised for glamorous arrangements, impeccable musicianship, and an infectious sense of fun. Paired with the lush sound of the full Sinfonia Gulf Coast orchestra, this Crescendo! performance promises a musical experience that is sophisticated, surprising, and irresistibly entertaining.
As part of Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s 20th anniversary season, Crescendo! 2026 elevates the gala tradition to new heights. Guests will enjoy reserved table seating, passed hors d’oeuvres, an elegant seated late lunch, curated wines and spirits, exciting auction offerings, and an all-inclusive afternoon of music, food, and celebration — all in support of Sinfonia’s mission to inspire, educate, and connect the community through music.
Adding to the fun, guests are encouraged to dress to theme in emerald and pink. Emerald represents growth and renewal, honoring Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s two decades of artistic impact, while pink offers a playful nod to the afternoon’s special guest artists.
“Crescendo! is unlike any other event we produce,” says Sinfonia Gulf Coast Music & Artistic Director Demetrius Fuller. “Bringing Pink Martini together with our full orchestra for the first time at Crescendo! — perfectly captures the bold, celebratory spirit of our 20th anniversary while directly supporting the education and outreach programs at the heart of our mission.”
Tickets are on sale now. Crescendo! Main Event tickets are $250 per person and include the reception, lunch, wine, gratuity, and live entertainment. Tables seating 10 are available by reservation.
Proceeds from Crescendo! benefit Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s extensive music education and community engagement initiatives across Northwest Florida, including musicians and guest artists in schools, free orchestra concerts, student transportation, the Sinfonia Youth Orchestra, Link Up concerts in partnership with Carnegie Hall, Paint the Music (with Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation), Arts in Medicine with Sacred Heart Hospital, and more.
Those looking to take their support a step further are invited to become “Treble Makers,” an honorary committee celebrating Sinfonia’s mission. For a $650 contribution, Treble Makers receive one ticket to the Crescendo! Kick Off Lunch and Main Event, recognition in the event program, reserved seating at closed-to-the-public Link Up student performances on March 11, 2026, at the Destin–Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, invitations to private events, a special Treble Maker gift, and additional benefits.
For Crescendo! sponsorship inquiries, contact Klara Mikolai at kmikolai@sinfoniagulfcoast.org. Volunteer opportunities are also available; those interested may contact Beth Clavier at (850) 460-8800 or bclavier@sinfoniagulfcoast.org.
Tickets, sponsorships, and additional details are available at SinfoniaGulfCoast.org or by calling the box office at (850) 460-8800.
