Mandolin Orchestra New Year Concert

In Search of Hope – by Sam Gannon

Seconded to the parish of Tililngdon, the Reverend Dolores has been presented with a challenge.

She’s living in an antiquated house and she’s cold. Furthermore, her new Bishop, Bishop Alice does not approve of ‘showgirls in dog collars.’

Determined to prove the Bishop wrong, she sets about warming her house – who cares if it smells of horse! There is the crochet club, jumble sale, and soup run to organise. And this year, the church bells will ring, no matter what threats are made. Even more so, the newly formed choir will spread a little joy this Christmas, even though they can’t sing – yet! And with a little help from Phil, her bassist, this year could be full of magic.

However, she has a fight on her hands as the townies out in Knob Hill – she must stop calling it that, are trying to stop her from ringing her bells. When Krystal with a K decides to do some volunteer work, Dolores sets out to see just how committed she really is.

Up to her ears in granny squares and squawking choristers, Dolores is revving up for Christmas, yet a deeper darker secret is beginning to emerge!

A secret that could blow the whole parish apart and put Dolores in danger.

(available from Amazon)

The Associação Recreio Musical União da Mocidade / Madeira Mandolin Orchestra will hold a special New Year concert on the 1st of January at 18:00, at the Madeira Congress Centre.

Integrated in the 2025/2026 Artistic Season, this New Year’s Concert takes place under the direction of maestro André Martins and presents a programme specially designed for this festive occasion, bringing together ‘light classics’, waltzes and polkas, in a selection of works from the great classics of world music, carefully adapted to the unique sound of the mandolin.

More than just a concert, this is a celebration of music as a universal language, bringing people together, stirring emotions, and speaking beyond words. It’s an invitation to listen, feel, and welcome the new year with the iconic sounds of Madeira’s Mandolin Orchestra.

Tickets are for sale in the Meo Blue Ticket, Madeira Best, Ticketline, Gaudeamus Store, Madeira Forum, and Madeira Casino.

Samantha Gannon

info at madeira-weekly.com