Taps across the water will take place on Sunday, May 25, at Lake Webster, lake Wawasee, Syracuse and Papakeechie lakes. Photo by Larry Baumgardt.

News Release

NORTH WEBSTER, SYRACUSE — The 5th annual tribute of Taps Across the Water for Lake Webster, Lake Wawasee, Syracuse and Papakeechie lakes will take place Sunday, May 25.

This event honors United States military personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the country. Trumpeters and buglers strategically positioned around the lakes create a stunning, multi-directional performance with an “Echo Cascading Rendition” of Taps.

With a staggered start, the sound of Taps resonates across the water for four minutes, creating a reverent, contemplative and deeply memorable experience for both participants and attendees.

Dr. Matt Murdock, an educator who resides in Indianapolis and North Webster, has assembled nearly 40 buglers and trumpeters for two programs, one in North Webster and one in Syracuse. Participating musicians include members of our community and surrounding areas, including veterans, community bands, high school students and music directors, and professional musicians.

According to Murdock, “We are connected and inspired by Jari Villanueva’s Taps Across America. One of our goals is to bring awareness of the shortage of live trumpet players at military funerals. Jari retired from the U.S. Air Force, where he spent 23 years with the USAF Band in Washington, DC.”

Murdock goes on to say, “As educators, it is our responsibility to instill in our students, especially those in high school bands, a sense of obligation to our communities. They may not fully realize the services they provide, whether it’s boosting school spirit at athletic events or fostering community spirit by participating in festivals. This event presents the students an opportunity to promote this experience personally with the intent of continuing community service after graduation.”

North Webster Lake Taps

6:30 p.m. — Listen for Taps Across the Water

For four minutes you can hear the echoing Taps Across the Water. The beginning of the Taps also cues the Dixie Sternwheeler to launch. You can hear the Taps at the Town Park, from your pier, your boat, or on the Dixie.

7:05 p.m. —  20-minute trumpet concert in the Town Park

Lakes Wawasee, Syracuse and Papakeechie Taps

9 p.m. — A few moments of silence

Mark Knecht Chautauqua-Wawasee Board President says, “In addition to notifying the community, we alert the lakefront restaurants about the timing of the event and propose guests observe one minute of silence before the starting of the Taps.”

9:09 p.m. — Listen for Taps Across the Water

For four minutes you can hear the echoing Taps Across the Water. Karen Kroemer organizer of the event said, “Wind always affects how sound travels. And this can present a big challenge. Every year people anticipate and plan for this impactful event. It’s disappointing, if the wind hinders our ability to hear this musical tribute.”

Knowing pier locations can facilitate hearing Taps from your pier or your boat, visit Chautauqua-Wawasee on Facebook or the website or an up-to-date map and list of pier locations. In Syracuse, buglers will also be stationed at the bridge by the Channel Marker, the Public Boat Launch and at the Oakwood for additional public viewing.