Alf Tibbs was born in London in 1904. When he was 12 years old he got a job with the Heintzman piano Company delivering pianos, and in so doing quickly learned to play the piano. He became an excellent pianist and with his natural music talent became proficient on several other instruments. In his teen years, he practised and played with Guy Lombardo's early band and planned to leave with the band when it went to the USA to find fame and fortune. Unfortunately his grandmother discovered his plans and refused to let him go. He played with local groups but then decided to have his own band and be his own conductor.

Alf called his original Orchestra “Alf Tibbs and the Georgians” and one of his first jobs was at the opening of Hotel London in 1927. Joan (Tibbs) Tanner, Alf’s daughter, still has all the original band record books and they show the engagements the band played. They played for many years at the Masonic Hall on Queens Avenue in London, and during the 30s played at most of the society functions and popular dances in the area particularly at Hotel London.

It was a completely professional band, well turned out and very proficient. They also played the resorts of Lake Huron and Lake Erie during the summer and for many years was the house band at the Stork Club, Port Stanley, playing seven nights a week all summer long. Dance cards were still popular in the 30s and examples of their use at Alf Tibbs dances can be found in the photographic slideshow.

During WW2 Alf Tibbs organised an All-Star Variety show, which performed for servicemen stationed at bases throughout South-western Ontario. Alf was MC for the show and Don Wright directed the band. The show featured various acts including a magician, comedian, dancers, Gale Gordon as solo violinist as well as his full Orhestra, cowgirls and others. Singers were Ginny Mitchell and Gayle Gordon.

After the war Alf Tibbs continued to play at resorts and functions throughout SW Ontario. He died in 1978.

Unfortunately no audio of the band can be traced at this time. If you can help please contact us.