Bert L. Fulton
From Marchdb.net
August 15, 1884- September 11, 1936
Bert L. Fulton, younger brother of composer James M. Fulton, was born in Prosperity, Pennsylvania, on August 15, 1884. He was the youngest son of Curry Fulton, a violinist, and Emma Fulton, and spent most of his early life in Washington, Pennsylvania. He was mostly self-taught but probably studied violin with his father. He learned to play most other band and orchestra instruments and was especially proficient on the piano.
His wife was the former Pearl Amsler, and all of their five children became professional musicians. About 1903, his family moved to Waterbury, Connecticut, where his brother James was established in the music business. James had founded the Fulton American Band, and Bert became leader of the band when James moved to Boston. In addition to his work with the Fulton American Band, Bert was conductor of the orchestra at Poli's Theater and various hotel orchestras.
He composed and arranged for numerous vaudeville acts which passed through Waterbury and did special arrangements for Al Jolson, Eddie Cantor, Fritzi Sheff, and other show business personalities.
Fulton moved to New York City ca. 1923 and did arranging and composing for many radio programs when radio was in its infancy. Later, he worked in the same capacity for several network programs. He also established his own music publishing company in New York.
Fulton died in Claysville, Pennsylvania, on September 11, 1936, and is buried in the Washington (Pennsylvania) Cemetery. In addition to his works for band, he composed sacred and secular songs and a few piano works.
Marches composed by Bert L. Fulton:
- Aristo Club March
- College Spirit March (1900)
- Fifth Regiment March (1918)
- The 4th Artillery March
- Military Salute, march (1900)
- Observer March (1900)
