Allan Ludlow was born in Toronto. Early childhood memories were created in Mimico where piano lessons played an important role in molding his musical future. He spent his highschool years in London where he completed his art training which eventually lead him to a career in the graphic arts fields. During his teen years in London his primary focus was music under the direction of Martin Boundy in local concert bands and the London Symphony as a trombonist. Al also played with Lionel Thornton's Casa Royal Dance Band travelling Smalltown Ontario with the band.
In 1957 Al and his wife Gwen moved to Hamilton where he joined the Ron Wickens Orchestra for a dozen years. He also played for several theatre productions under the direction of Cliff Hunt. The sounds of his trombone were also heard in Harry Wallers', Jimmy Beggs', Jack Ryans' and Lloyd Peachs' dance bands occasionally at this time.
Professionally Al was employed in the production end of the graphics industry working out of Hamilton and Toronto. Somehow he still found time to play his trombone in many big bands throughout Southern Ontario finding he enjoyed playing Dixieland and Jazz especially. Growing up listening to Glenn Miller is what inspired him to play trombone all these years.
Photography too has been another one of Al's passions. As a father of four children Dave, Carol-Anne, Mark and Pat there was always an abundance of subject matter .
Landscapes captured by his lens to this day are still breathtaking. His photo compositions are artistically and clearly thought out. Most of the photos for Albirg photo series have been taken by Al Ludlow.
In 2004 Al and his wife Birgie moved to St. Catharines where they continue to run their business Albirg creations finding great joy and fulfillment in creating and marketing their custom made products as well helping others do the same with theirs.
