Fort Ticonderoga is proud to announce the inaugural recipients of the George C. Singer Junior Fifes & Drums Scholarship, a new initiative designed to expand opportunities for local youth in its renowned historical music and trades program. This scholarship, made possible by the generous support of the Singer family in memory of their father, George C. Singer, provides invaluable paid apprenticeship opportunities and enhanced skill-building for dedicated young participants.
The George C. Singer Junior Fifes & Drums Scholarship honors George Singer’s deep belief in community, youth education, and opening opportunities for students, particularly those in need. The full gift of $100,000 will allow more than 10 youth from the local region to receive lessons and hands-on instruction in a variety of life skills through the Junior Fifes & Drums. Each scholarship provides up to $10,000 for year-round paid apprenticeship opportunities.
Fort Ticonderoga is delighted to announce the 2025 recipients of the George C. Singer Junior Fifes & Drums Scholarship:
Jedediah Visser – Port Henry, New York
Jedediah has been an exemplary member of the Junior Fifes & Drums, demonstrating exceptional musical talent on the fife and a strong commitment to the program’s values. His sincere love of performing both martial and bluegrass music, and his enthusiasm for public education, make him a truly deserving recipient.
Finn Henty – Cornwall, Vermont
Finn has shown remarkable progress and dedication within the Junior Fifes & Drums. His commitment to precision and performance as a drummer along with his genuine sense of teamwork have made a significant impression, making him an excellent choice for this inaugural scholarship.
These scholarships will transform the volunteer practice of these Junior Fifes & Drums members (ages 14-16) into paid apprenticeships, allowing them to build crucial life skills, receive compensation for their work, and further expand their fife and drum lessons. Beyond music, recipients will benefit from expanded opportunities for skill-building and mentorship with Fort Ticonderoga’s professional Public History staff, gaining hands-on instruction from skilled artisans in historic trades such as tailoring and shoemaking, as well as developing professional skills like public speaking and museum education.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Singer family for their extraordinary generosity in establishing the George C. Singer Junior Fifes & Drums Scholarship,” said Beth L. Hill, President and CEO of Fort Ticonderoga. “This transformative gift allows us to deepen our commitment to youth education and workforce development, providing a unique pathway for young people to connect with history while building essential life skills. George Singer’s legacy will live on through the lives of these talented young individuals.”
The Junior Fifes & Drums program, a volunteer group for young people aged 10-16, serves as a vital pipeline for Fort Ticonderoga’s Senior Fifes & Drums, whose members are an essential part of the professional public history staff. The Junior program provides weekly music lessons, fosters teamwork and camaraderie, and offers hands-on instruction in trades and professional skills. The George C. Singer Junior Fifes & Drums Scholarship dramatically expands these opportunities, embodying Fort Ticonderoga’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of historians, musicians and skilled artisans.
Through August 24th, during daily performances at Fort Ticonderoga, enjoy the stirring tunes that eased the drudgery of a long march, or the many calls that regulated activity in the fort. Explore how drumbeats, trilling fifes, and songs created an 18th-century world of military music.
About Fort Ticonderoga’s Fifes and Drums:
The Fort Ticonderoga Fife and Drum Corps was first formed in 1926 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of American Independence. It performed each summer until World War II. The Corps was revived in 1973, in preparation for the bicentennial, and has performed daily during the museum’s summer season ever since.
About Fort Ticonderoga:
Welcoming visitors since 1909, Fort Ticonderoga is a major cultural destination, museum, historic site, and center for learning. As a multi-day destination and the premier place to learn more about North America’s military heritage, Fort Ticonderoga engages more than 70,000 visitors each year with an economic impact of more than $16 million annually. Presenting vibrant programs, historic interpretation, boat cruises, tours, demonstrations, and exhibits, Fort Ticonderoga and is open for daily visitation May through October and special programs during Winter Quarters, November through April. Fort Ticonderoga is owned by The Fort Ticonderoga Association, a 501c3 non-profit educational organization, and is supported in part through generous donations and with some general operating support made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts. To view Fort Ticonderoga’s electronic press kit, click here. © The Fort Ticonderoga Association. 2025 All Rights Reserved.