The Promise
Evensong
Brandstater Amphitheatre, September 3, 2011
Brenton Stacey
Public relations officer
Avondale College of Higher Education
Cooranbong, New South Wales, Australia
The Promise at Evensong proved the practice-makes-perfect adage is true. With 28 performances this year, and a tour to the United States, the vocal ensemble is polished, even in an outdoor venue—Brandstater Amphitheatre hosting its first Evensong.
On song: The Promise in the Brandstater Amphitheatre. Credit: Ann Stafford.
Each part is distinguishable, even in the quieter pieces—the songs “Prayer of the Children” and “Balm in Gilead” serving as examples. The overall sound is balanced, though.
The jazz arrangements of “Amazing Grace” and “Abide With Me” provide points of difference, as do sopranos Jackie Ward and Vivienne Calwell in “Pie Jesu.” “Joshua” seems an ensemble favourite.
The Promise looks the part in its new uniforms and confident presentation. Its sound? Just as good.