Bill Harty facts for kids
William John Harty was a talented drummer from Waterford, Ireland. He was born on January 14, 1899, and passed away on May 29, 1959, in Los Angeles, California. William Harty became a well-known drummer for dance bands, bringing his musical skills from Ireland to the world.
William Harty's Musical Journey
William Harty was born in Waterford, Ireland, in 1899. After World War I, he moved to Birmingham, England. While working at the Dunlop Tyre Company, he started learning to play the drums.
He quickly became part of the early jazz music scene in Birmingham. William played with many local bands. He even filled in for an American band at the famous Birmingham Palais.
During the 1920s, William Harty traveled across Europe. He played music in many different countries. Later, he returned to England. There, he joined several popular bands. He played with groups led by famous musicians like Lew Stone.
William Harty was the favorite drummer for Ray Noble. He played on many of Ray Noble's studio recordings. These recordings were made with The New Mayfair Dance Orchestra between 1929 and 1934.
In 1934, William Harty took on a new role. He became Ray Noble's manager. That same year, he sailed to the United States with Ray Noble and singer Al Bowlly. Their goal was to create a touring band in America. William Harty continued to be Ray Noble's manager and drummer into the 1950s.
