Walk into Central Atrium, Select Citywalk, on June 9 and 10 to enjoy some soothing and soulful songs as Whim ‘n Rhythm of Yale, the only all-female a cappella group from Yale University aims to enthrall the Delhi crowd. In an email interview, Katey McDonald, one of the band members, talks about capella style of music, their performance in the city and more.
Q. This is your first trip to India, how does it feel?
We are so excited to visit India! It’s a joy to be able to travel to new countries doing what we love.
Q. Define a cappella style of music.
A cappella means music without instruments. The act of singing a cappella style goes back to medieval times, but a cappella groups such as ours really took off in the early 1900’s in the United States.
Q. With no instrument used in the cappella music, how do you create the sound?
The specialty of a cappella is that we create the sounds with our voices. We imitate drums, saxophones, violins, trumpets, and more with our voices. It’s an amazing amount of work for a beautiful and unique result.
Q. How challenging it is to sing without an instrument?
The most challenging part is staying in the same key, but we have been singing together for a year and know how to listen and tune to each other.
Q. Any apprehensions on performing in Delhi?
A cappella tends to please all audiences because it is unique. The songs we do are also recognisable, such that it is like hearing a cover of a song people already like, and who doesn’t like another version of their favourite song? Currently, we have been working out a set list for the event that will please all types of audiences, with both old and new favourites.
Q. Where all have you performed?
We have performed all over the continental United States, including concerts in Texas, North Carolina, Washinton DC, California, and more.
Q. What is Whiffenpoofs concept?
The Whiffenpoofs are the male equivalent to Whim ‘n Rhythm. They are about 70 years older than we are, but the concept really remains the same.
Q. Finally, what is the message you would like to put across through this performance?
We want to spread the idea that music and arts are important for all people. Obviously, since we are an all women’s group, there is a slight feminist slant and we want to remind women and girls that they too can be empowered performers and leaders.