Ruth Bradley – President 1940 – 1945

Ruth Bradley, born Ruth Aileen Langhammer (née Overcash), played a pivotal role not only in the world of swing music but also in leading the Associated Music Teachers League (AMTL) during a critical time in its history. Born in Arkansas in 1915, she moved to New York City as a teenager, adopting the stage name “Ruth Bradley” as she pursued her career in the thriving music scene of the 1930s and 1940s.

 

As a talented saxophonist, clarinetist, and singer, Bradley performed with Vincent Lopez’s all-girl band, The Debutantes, before moving on to work with Ina Ray Hutton and later becoming the lead vocalist for Bunny Berigan’s orchestra. Her success in the swing era, both as a musician and vocalist, brought her widespread recognition, which she carried into her leadership role within AMTL.

 

From 1940 to 1945, Ruth Bradley served as President of the AMTL, overseeing its mission to promote music education and uphold high standards in musicianship during the challenging times of World War II. During her presidency, Bradley was supported by a dedicated team, including:

  • Vice Presidents:
    Bernard Ravitch and Rose Raymond, who worked alongside Bradley to ensure the League’s activities continued to thrive.
  • Secretary:
    Anna Harper, who managed the day-to-day communications and coordination of the League’s numerous meetings and events.
  • Treasurer:
    Aaron Ornstein, a key figure in ensuring the financial stability of AMTL during these uncertain times.

 

Obituary Published in the Thursday, August 31, 1989 Edition Fort Worth Star-Telegram [the newspaper of Fort Worth, TX in Tarrant County]

Obituary Published in the Thursday, August 31, 1989 Edition
Fort Worth Star-Telegram [the newspaper of Fort Worth, TX in Tarrant County]

The executive board, comprising 12 members, played an instrumental role in guiding AMTL through this era, which saw the League maintain its 150 members and hold regular meetings (ten per year, with ten board meetings). Their collective efforts helped the AMTL navigate through wartime challenges, ensuring that music education and performance opportunities remained accessible in New York City.

 

After her presidency at AMTL, Ruth Bradley transitioned into a new chapter, joining the musical staff at WOW-TV in Omaha, Nebraska, in the late 1940s, where she worked in the burgeoning world of television. She retired from show business in the early 1950s, leaving behind a vibrant legacy both as a performer and leader.

 

Key Contributions:

  • AMTL Presidency (1940-1945): Ruth Bradley, alongside Vice Presidents Bernard Ravitch and Rose Raymond, Secretary Anna Harper, and Treasurer Aaron Ornstein, ensured the League’s growth and resilience during a period of global unrest.
  • Musical Career: Celebrated for her work as a saxophonist, clarinetist, and vocalist in the swing era, Bradley left a lasting impact on both the music world and the AMTL.
  • Executive Leadership: Under her leadership, the AMTL’s board of twelve members guided the organization through ten meetings per year, preserving its commitment to music education in New York City.

Ruth Bradley’s legacy as a musician and AMTL president is a testament to her dedication to fostering musical excellence and education through challenging times.

 

Sources: https://bhsinmemoriam.blogspot.com/2013/12/ruth-ellen-wood-bradley-bhs-1969.html, https://www.discogs.com/artist/3233345-Ruth-Bradley, https://de.findagrave.com/memorial/134829284/ruth-allyne-langhammer