The Georgetown Chimes was founded in 1946 by Francis E. Jones, a graduate student who had served in the Pacific War. Jones wanted to create a group that "emphasized brotherhood and friendship through harmony," which eventually became the Chimes, named after the bells hung on the South Tower of Healy Hall.
History and Traditions
Chimes members are assigned a number once they are inducted, with Jones being Chime #1 and the most recent member being #281. The Chimes is rich with its own traditions, cultivated over the past few decades. Most infamous of which is the "Neophyte Process," where students who pass the first round of auditions have to memorize over 150 songs and are tested for their abilities to become officially inducted. This process can take longer than eight months, depending on the inductee. The Chimes is known for the strong bond between members, even after graduation: "Once you are a Chime, you are always a Chime."1 In 1973, when six out of seven Chimes members graduated, faithful Chimes alumni returned to perform with the undergraduate Chimes for scheduled shows until new members could be inducted. Father Gerard F. Yates described the Chimes as a symbol of "A commitment and a loyalty, both personal and institutional."2
The Chimes Today
The Chimes has performed for the Ed Sullivan show, President Eisenhower, President Ford, President Carter, and have even sung at the Capitol. Every year, the Chimes hosts the Cherry Tree Massacre, an a cappella performance that features on-campus a cappella groups, groups from other universities, and professional musicians.
