Bert Lundberg
(1918-2021)
Inducted in 1996
At the age of 16, Bert’s father gave him a four-string banjo while he was recuperating from the mumps. He learned to play trumpet and accordion, and went on to entertain and spread happiness to his audiences. Over the years he played with numerous bands including the Nets Royal Bagabonds and Matt DeLong’s Big Band, but declined to join any “big name” bands as he didn’t want to travel. Bert received a Master’s Degree in Music, and became the Band Director at New London/Spicer School District. He taught for 25 years until retiring in 1980. Bert then led the Ancient Age community dance big band for 30 years. Bert noted his most interesting musical experience in the past 65 years was playing or “sitting in” with Big Bands including Lawrence Welk, Tiny Little, Jules Herman, Sammy Jensen, The 91st Division Dance Band, and jam sessions with Harry James. Music always brought much joy to Bert’s life. He said “seeing people happy when you’re working means you’ve accomplished something”.
