New music scholarship funded by Phish fans available to Vermont undergrads

A new scholarship is giving students a boost — funded entirely by Phish fans. The Mockingbird Foundation, a nonprofit created by fans of the band, has partnered with the Vermont Student Assistance Corp. to launch The Mockingbird Foundation Music Scholarship. The scholarship is funded in perpetuity to outlast the band, Phish fans and even The Mockingbird Foundation itself.

Supported by “phans” of Phish, the scholarship was established to help undergraduate students, attending an accredited school located within Vermont, who are seeking an undergraduate degree in music or music education.

“Phish has always been about community—the way a gathering of strangers becomes something bigger through music,” said Ellis Godard of The Mockingbird Foundation. “This scholarship lets that community give something back that is bigger than all of us: support for Vermont students to pursue music education and carry that spirit forward into classrooms and communities of their own — forever.”

The iconic band was formed by four University of Vermont students in 1983. The Mockingbird Foundation was created in 1996 by devoted Phish fans, independent of the band and their management, to channel their shared passion for music into funding innovative, inclusive music education programs for children nationwide.

Scott Giles, VSAC president and CEO, said, “Phish fans will now be able to directly help students in Vermont who share a passion for music. VSAC is delighted to help support generations of learners who share fans’ enthusiasm for the power of song.”

Applications for the scholarship are now open. Successful applicants will demonstrate commitment to excellence, innovation, academic achievement, and service to others. Current students who show financial need and are in their sophomore, junior, or senior year of college, enrolled at least three-quarter time, are eligible to apply. Click here for more information.

Required application documents include VSAC’s Unified Scholarship Application, FAFSA, an essay, a letter of recommendation from a person who is not a relative, a letter of recommendation detailing community service, and a transcript. Students will be selected based on their essays, financial need, recommendation letters, and academic achievement. The number of scholarships and award amount will be determined annually.

For more information on The Mockingbird Foundation Music Scholarship, please see the 2027-2028 VSAC Scholarship Booklet.