The Yale Whiffenpoofs Return to Fez

The Yale Whiffenpoofs make a welcome return to the Fez Medina for a concert. The event is free and open to the general public

Photo: Suzanna Clarke

The Whiffenpoofs are a cappella songsters who come from Yale University, Connecticut, and follow a long tradition.

Founded in 1909, “the Whiffs” began as a senior quartet that met for weekly concerts. Today the group numbers 14 and has become one of Yale’s most celebrated traditions.

And the origins of their unusual name? An early member, Denton ‘Goat’ Fowler, was tickled by a joke featuring a mythical dragonfish named the Whiffenpoof, and suggested the name to his companions. They thought the name reflected the light-hearted atmosphere engendered by the group’s gatherings. The name stuck.

The Whiffenpoof repertoire features a diverse selection of songs, ranging from traditional Yale songs to original compositions to hits from every decade. These include the likes of All You Need is Love by the Beatles, Someone to Watch Over Me by Gershwin and When the Saints Go Marching In. There is also the original Whiffenpoof song, which has been recorded by Rudy Vallee, Bing Crosby, Elvis Presley, Louis Armstrong, and countless others.

The concert has been organized and sponsored by ALC-Fez/ALIF

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