Connections Archive

Brenton Stacey
Public relations officer

An Avondale College student has impressed with his contribution in a late call-up to the University of Newcastle Choir.

Lyndelle Lawrence (pictured) had only about two weeks to learn all the music for the choir's performance of jazz standards with The Dungeon Big Band at the university's Great Hall on July 27. He not only learned the music but also received the honour of singing first tenor. "Del did more that just add a voice," says conductor Dr Jenny Barnes. "He responded to everything I asked him to do."

A "fractured preparation" saw a need to boost the male sections of the choir, so Jenny contacted Dr Robb Dennis, a senior lecturer in music at Avondale. Overseas at the time, Robb suggested Lyndelle. The call-up came as a "pleasant surprise." "Robb sees something in me," says Lyndelle, who sings with the Avondale Singers and vocal ensemble The Promise, "but sometimes I don't see it."

"When I found out Del not only sang well but also anchored the tenor section, it was a proud moment," says Robb.

Credit: Ann Stafford