The Whiffenpoofs - Every year, 14 senior Yale men are selected to be in the Whiffenpoofs, the world's oldest and best-known collegiate a cappella group. Founded in 1909, the "Whiffs" began as a senior quartet that met for weekly concerts at Mory's Temple Bar, the famous Yale tavern. Today, the group has become one of Yale's most celebrated traditions. And last night they gave their first ever concert in the Fez Medina.
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| Photo: Tom Fakler |
Over one hundred people attended Fez Cafe, for the concert that was sponsored by ALC-Fez/ALIF and Jardin des Biehn. It was probably the most incongruous setting for men in formal dress and yet it worked well. The one moment when the lights failed was rescued by the singers whipping out their phones and illuminating themselves!
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| Photo: Tom Fakler |
It was a huge success. Not only was the music superbly performed, but the humour that accompanied the introductions had the audience in fits.
The ambiance added much to the performance and for a group who have been on tour to over 20 countries, there was no sign of performance fatigue. The Whiffenpoofs were obviously having a great time.
Stand out moments were the beautiful rendition of the traditional Irish folksong, The Sally Gardens, with a fine solo by baritone, Scott McCreary and the surprising and brave inclusion of the James Taylor song, "New Hymn". The song is a rare gem that does not appear on any James Taylor album.
But when we thirst in this dry night
We drink from hot wells poisoned with the blood of children
And when we strain to hear a steady homing beam
Our ears are balked by stifled moans
And howls of desolation from the throats of sisters, brothers, wild men
Clawing at the gates for bread
The chilling lyrics were given a superb delivery by first tenor, Andrew Maillet.
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| Photo: Suzanna Clarke |
1 comment:
Thank you so much!
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