Singing Whitman’s praises—literally and perennially

—Staff report

The name of the tune at Whitman College last Friday? The 91 ^st annual Choral Contest.

Approximately 140 singers from nine groups—from the all-female a cappella Sirens of Swank to the all-male counterparts the Testostertones—serenaded more than 300 ensemble fans in Cordiner Hall, as this video by economics major Jake Barokas '18 captures.

Other performers: Soccer Teams, Alpha Phi, Schwa, Phi Delta Theta, Sweets, Delta Gamma and Indy Blend.  

"I love bringing different sectors of campus together in fun and engaging ways outside of an academic context," said Sarah Rothschild '19, annual events organizer for the Whitman Events Board. "And I felt like Choral Contest was successful in doing just that." The math major added: "I had a blast witnessing the creativity of the groups during their performances."  

Winners:

• Howard E. Pratt Memorial Trophy for best men's choir: Indy Blend
• Gena Branscombe Award for best women's choir: Delta Gamma
• Jose Ariel Rambaldi Award for Excellence for best a cappella group: Schwa
• Award for Excellence in Special Interest Group Performance: Soccer Teams
• People's Choice Award (chosen by audience voting): Schwa  

Winners earned more than bragging rights: their names engraved on trophies exhibited in a display case in the Reid Campus Center lounge. The women's trophy is the original from 91 years ago.  

Judges included Barbara Maxwell, associate dean of student programs and activities; Chuck Cleveland, vice president for student affairs/dean of students; and Suzanne Morrissey, associate professor and department chair of anthropology.   

"Choral Contest is always a highlight of the year, bringing together student groups from all over campus for a night of singing and laughter. I'm fairly certain this is the longest-standing annual tradition on campus, which also gives the evening a feeling of community and connection to institution," said Leann Adams '03, director of student activities. "I've been particularly excited in recent years as the special interest group category has emerged, bringing us performances from sports teams, residence hall groups and clubs."