London Ontario's Musical Heritage
by
Bob Martin
It comes as a surprise to many Londoners that this City at one time enjoyed a period in its history that could be considered the "Golden Years of Music." I had the good fortune to experience and observe first-hand these vibrant years (1930 to the 1980's).
My music career started at a very young age and because of these special circumstances I was already playing with some of these musicians in their bands doing dances and shows when I was barely into my teens. It was an invaluable opportunity that few musicians get to experience.
Looking back at this period I am able to recall and document London’s growth as a city and chronicle the development of London’s musical heritage.
It was a time that the sheer abundance of "musical" opportunities were flourishing everywhere in the area in every manner shape and form. The whole picture is made even more impressive when you consider that London only had a population of 50,000 or so in the 1930's and early 40's.
These opportunities were so varied, so enriching, that it's doubtful such a period would ever be experienced again. London was growing and so was its artistic presence. Today, London can boast a heritage of notable "artists" that have made names for themselves locally and eventually abroad. They enriched the cultural picture in this city and laid the foundation for a period of significant musical growth.