MCV Appeal: Strengthening the Sound

A Year in Review

As we wind down another thrilling year, which brought MCV to Drummer’s Call in Williamsburg, Virginia; the Feast of the Hunters’ Moon in West Lafayette, Indiana; and the 250th Patriots’ Day memorials and celebrations in our hometown, we are pleased to reflect on the generosity of our donors. With their support, we have brought the art of fifing and drumming to thousands of Massachusetts residents through a robust calendar of parades and concerts, as well as to friends and fans across the country.

Each week, MCV members enthusiastically participated in rigorous rehearsals that polish perennial favorites and grow and reinvent the fife and drum repertoire. In 2025, MCV performed at more than 30 community events, including parades, concerts, musters, and historical celebrations, reaching thousands throughout New England and beyond. We continue to interpret and reimagine the fife and drum repertoire, breathing new life into an ancient art form, keeping it vibrant and resonant for modern audiences.

The Need

Next year, 2026, marks the United States Semiquincentennial. Our performances are in even greater demand, as we are called upon to help recognize and reflect upon the history of our nation. During the upcoming year, this will include parades, jubilant celebrations, concerts with artistic partners across the Commonwealth, and community events. To capitalize on the increased attention that the 250th year of our nation will bring to the art of fifing and drumming, we are specifically looking to upgrade our instruments, including plans to replace our six large Cooperman bass drums, which have been in use for 20 years. These drums are foundational to MCV’s distinctive sound and replacing them will help define the clarity and precision that distinguishes us.

Please consider a tax-deductible donation to MCV. Funds raised during 2025 will support our operations, including much needed instrument upgrades that help support our all-volunteer group to deliver performances of the highest artistic caliber.

You can make your gift online or by check mailed to:

Middlesex County Volunteers Fifes & Drums
26 Orne Street
Salem, MA 01970-2423

MCV is a registered federal 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, and we support our activities strictly through grants, donations, and performance fees.

Checks must be postmarked by December 31, 2025 to be counted in our 2025 Appeal.