“"My relationship with him is old, but it became more intense during the Santa Cecília festivities in 1983. The Benissa music band, after a period of progression, entered a leadership crisis, foreshadowing a complicated stage. The musicians' demoralization was total, and the patron saint's festival was in jeopardy."
Tribute to Pep Sendra and his legacy in the Calendari dels Brillants
The figure of Pep Sendra, musician and key collaborator of the Calendari dels Brillants, is remembered, highlighting his dedication to popular music and bands.
By Mireia Blasco i Vidal
••3 min read
IA
Generic image of old sheet music and musical instruments, evoking music history.
The upcoming edition of the Calendari dels Brillants will celebrate its fortieth anniversary, a milestone that invites reflection on the figures who have contributed to its success, such as the recently deceased Pep Sendra, musician and a benchmark of Valencian popular culture.
The publication of the Calendari dels Brillants, soon to reach forty years, has established itself as a reference in Valencian literature, thanks to the generosity and passion of the people who made it possible. This anniversary prompts a reflection on its legacy and a remembrance of those contributors who are no longer with us, such as Pep Sendra.
Pep Sendra was a key part of the calendar, especially in the music section. His involvement was fundamental during critical moments, such as the Santa Cecília festivities in 1983, when the Benissa music band was going through a crisis. At that time, he generously and freely agreed to prepare the band for the parade, instilling encouragement and courage in the ensemble.
His friendship and dedication to popular music continued over time, participating in musical gatherings and congresses of the Institut d'Estudis Comarcals de la Marina Alta. He was a lover of music born from the people, an extractor of melodies who, with the simplicity of everyday instruments, made people sing and assert rights or celebrate festivities. He left his mark in the Calendari between 2004 and 2008 with works such as Malena, El batalló Popeye, and Música del poble.
In addition to his work in popular music, Pep Sendra illustrated the 2008 issue dedicated to art déco with his musicological knowledge. He was also co-author, along with Rosa Seser, of the book Goigs i devocions tradicionals a Dénia, published in 2001, a compilation of songs that used music to convey pleas more joyfully.
Pep Sendra's life was dedicated to music bands, serving as musical director in towns such as Pego, Teulada, La Vall, and Dénia. In a time of cultural isolation for band directors, his training was based on sacrifice and strong will, overcoming shortcomings and fostering fraternity through music. His humanity, joy, and kindness of heart make him unforgettable for all who loved him.



