Chapter 16

Looking Back

The "Golden Era" was a time in London's history that was truly impressive. Looking back on this historical picture and comparing it to today's scene one has to ask "What happened?"

Times changed and that era and what it offered the London populace will never be repeated again. Tastes change. People's interests also change. We have the strong presence of television today and people don't go out to dine and dance like they did in the "old" days. Other entertainment opportunities have taken their place.

However, we can look back and reminisce that this was a great time to experience and enjoy. Dance halls, supper clubs, band concerts in the Park, you name it, "live" entertainment was everywhere to be enjoyed in every manner, shape and form and, I might add, every day in the week. There was something for everyone. Those were exciting times.

This same "change" unfortunately was being played out everywhere in Canada and the United States and elsewhere. It is a bygone era.

That "Golden Era" created a great sense of "community". It was a vibrant period in the city's history. We do have remnants of musical /entertainment and cultural pursuits today however, it appears more fragmented. Co-incidentally the quality of musicianship has steadily improved but the venues (opportunities) just aren't there anymore.

Alas.. "The good old days."

It is said that "the artist articulates the human condition". In this manner the pulse (heart beat) of this city was historically defined in those memorable years by its musical and artistic presence.