The V-8's of Mount Holyoke College (circa 1955)

Cover design by Peggy Taylor '57

Members: Nancy Kenyon (leader), Carol Brickett, Nancy Lane, Joan Patricelli,
Nancy Sparnon, Margery Watts, Mary Ellen McLaughlin, Dagmar Henze, Carol Search,
Helen Rochestie, Jean Hopkins, Jane McGonagle, Shirley Clark, Diana Collins, Priscilla Willard (business manager)

The V-8's were organized in 1942 by an enthusiastic college group who enjoyed singing together in close harmony. Since the original group was comprised of eight girls, and they first sang at USO's and nearby army bases, hence the 'V' for Victory, the name V-8 was adopted. The organization has continued replacing each part when necessary by means of all-college try-outs. It includes twelve regular members with one alternate for each part. The V-8's are a completely independent group, arranging their own music, and planning their own rehearsals and appearances. Their repertoire varies from ballads to parodies and novelty numbers.

The Mount Holyoke V-8's have been quite active in singing for a wide variety of audiences. Locally, they have sung at various clubs, hospitals and benefits, and at campus activities, such as dances and receptions. They have also entertained at Amherst, Wesleyan, Skidmore, Cornell, Bowdoin, Dartmouth, Smith and Yale.

They continually experiment with new musical ideas and harmonies, striving always for a close and mellow blend. Most important, the V-8's have a good time singing together, for other people's pleasure and their own.