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Mixing new songs with old favourites, Avondale College vocal ensemble The Promise demonstrated again during forum this past Wednesday (September 5) why it is the apple of administration's eye--its smooth arrangements sit comfortably on the line between donation collecting traditional and student engaging contemporary. However, the ensemble's most recent performances illustrated it is much more than a marketing and public relations tool.

With a line-up that evolves each year, the current members have a mix rivalling any of their predecessors. In the brilliant acoustic space of Avondale College Seventh-day Adventist Church, The Promise gave its best sound performance I have heard.

Basses Ben Chadbond and Bo Kim, tenors Levi Gardner and Kent Lock, altos Leila Aguilar and Elyse Taylor and sopranos Melissa Cunningham, Toni Hughes and Krysten Rowe looked comfortable on stage. However, it is difficult not to draw comparisons between their solid, yet statuesque performance and The Idea of North's energetic and highly animated performance on the same stage two weeks earlier.

Interspersed with the musical offerings at forum, Bible readings and spiritual insights, including those from conductor Dr Robb Dennis, emphasised the belief and passion of each member. So, while the tone of the performance moved between reflective ("Ubi caritas," "Here I am Lord") and humorous ("Dry bones"), the common denominator was much deeper than musical excellence.

The Promise's impetus may have been in marketing and public relations--and the members of the ensemble do these well--but it's pleasing to see that what lies at the heart of the ensemble is deep, Christian faith. It's from this spiritual well that The Promise's sweet music flows, and flows often.

Braden sang with The Promise in 2005.

Visit www.thepromise.net.au for more information about The Promise, including biographies of each member and downloadable songs.

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