Each year, a group of rising Yale seniors is selected to join The Whiffenpoofs—the world’s oldest and best-known collegiate a cappella group. Founded in 1909, the “Whiffs” began as a senior quartet performing weekly at Mory’s Temple Bar, the iconic Yale tavern. Today, they are one of Yale’s most celebrated and enduring traditions
Their performance may seem effortless—but becoming a Whiff is no easy feat. Each year, only 14 Yale juniors are selected to join the world’s most renowned collegiate a cappella group.
For these young singers, the prize is definitely worth the fierce competition. Being a Whiff means being part of a tradition that includes the most famous Whiff of them all, Cole Porter. Porter sang in the 1913 lineup, and the Whiffenpoofs always include Cole Porter tunes in their program as a tribute.
The Whiffs are no strangers to fame, having performed at venues such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center and the White House. They’re at ease on television, too, having been part of hits such as “Gilmore Girls,” “Glee” and “Jeopardy,” among others. They’ve sung at the Rose Bowl and on “Saturday Night Live.” And they're coming back to The Palace Danbury this December!
