Latest News from Siam Hotels & Resorts

THE "WHIFFENPOOFS" 2009

THE "WHIFFENPOOFS" 2009
Saturday 27th June, 8:30 p.m.
Siam City Hotel, Bangkok. Rattanakosin Lounge

Fourteen handsome young men from Yale University, known as The Whiffenpoofs or "The Whiffs" as fans worldwide affectionately refer to them, return to Bangkok to entertain audiences with their unique a cappella style. Siam City Hotel boasts a thirteen-year long relationship with the celebrated Whiffs, who perform entirely without instrumental accompaniment and in superb harmony. These charming and very talented young men will share their love of music, wit and comedic antics in one of their legendary fast-paced performances.

Formed by fourteen senior Yale University men who are chosen each year to form the Whiffenpoofs, the group is one of the world's oldest and most famous American a cappella legends. Founded in 1909, the Whiffs began as a senior quintet that met for weekly concerts. "From the beginning, the emphasis has always been on singing and the fellowship of music-lovers," said a Whiff member.

The history behind the name reflects the light-heartedness of the group's philosophy. The name was adopted from a nonsensical verse originally spoken of in a Victor Herbert musical comedy called "Little Nemo," which had a run on Broadway. A comedian spoke of the exploits of big game hunting and fishing and told a fantastic tale of how he caught a "Whiffenpoof" fish. Unclear of the name's true meaning, "Whiffenpoof" fitted in with the group's mood of ‘free and exuberant fancy,' and is repeatedly adopted with enthusiasm by the new members.

The group's repertoire draws on a long tradition of original arrangements from many styles and eras, ranging from classical jazz to English folk songs and even Motown hits of the 60's. New additions and original recordings are a popular feature and this year's performance includes musical hits made famous by composers Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, and Cole Porter. The performance will also feature a host of notable recordings from Bob Marley, Jim Weatherly and the group's most celebrated namesake, "The Whiffenpoof Song,"written by two of the founding members and later popularized in recordings by Rudy Vallee, Bing Crosby, Elvis Presley, and others.

Widely celebrated across the globe, the Whiffenpoofs have performed for a range of spiritual and political leaders, including Mother Theresa, the Dalai Lama and Presidents Reagan, Bush, and Clinton, in venues such as Carnegie Hall and the Lincoln centre. Always in the news around America, the Whiffs have featured in the New York Times, NBC Television and CBS affiliate KBTX, and Vanity Fair Magazine.

Tickets are priced at Bht. 450 for adults and Bht. 200 for students. A pre-show Buffet Dinner package at is available at the celebrated Patummat Restaurant, priced Bht. 1,300 for adults & Bht. 1,100 for students.

Booking and dinner reservations are contactable on: 0 2247-0123, ext. 1928, 1912.