Music is his only business.
For over 25 years, Al Fuller has been bringing music to the Sarasota area, playing solo and featuring all your favorite tunes. Want to know more?
Who is Al Fuller?
Al has been singing, playing, and composing music for most of his life. He was raised in Western Massachusetts Pioneer Valley. His mother was a piano teacher, and taught him to play the piano as soon as he was big enough to sit on the piano stool. But at age 12, when his mother brought home a guitar from a yard sale, it was love at first sight.
Al studied privately through his teens, and after graduating from the University of Massachusetts, he hit the road. A veteran performer, Al entertained troops in Viet Nam, and played in England, Spain, Canada, Mexico, and all over the United States. His musicial styles range from folk music, original songs, rock and roll to blues.He plays solo, or with his band, the Moonlight Movers.Get to know Al Fuller through these pages.
What is His Mission?
Entertainer, Guitar, Harmonica, Singer, Songwriter, instructor, band leader...these are what Al lists as his occupation on his business card. But that doesn't tell you about the dynamic quality of his entertainment, singing, and guitar playing. His fine baritone voice reels out tune after tune with precision, while accompanying himself on a Gibson 6-string, a Fender Stratocaster, a National Resophonic Guitar, assorted harmonicas, and some fancy footwork. Al's mission is to bring music to Sarasota - through his performances, his songwriting, his CD's, and his students. Since Al is famous for his 25 year stint hosting his blues jam, many think of him as a blues player. But he resists being put into a box. In fact, his initial introduction to music was playing in a rock and roll band. Al Fuller loves rock and roll just like you do
Questions about the band?
The Moonlight Movers is the first band Al's had in several years. Specializing in dance music, the Moonlight Movers include Barry Sikes on bass guitar, and Rich MacDonald on drums. The Movers also serve as a backing band for Al Fuller's Famous Blues Jam, every Wednesday Night at Nicky's, at 49 South Palm Avenue in Sarasota. Al's Blues jam has been running in Sarasota at different locations for close to 25 years. Musicians can arrive early (the jam starts at 7:30) and bring their instruments. A full back line, including drum kit, amps and keyboard, is included. For other performances, check Al's calendar page.
Need to book Al solo or with the Moonlight Movers?
Call Al any time to book a private party or a gig at your venue. Al will tailor his performance (and that of his band, if you wish) to your specifications, being sure to include favorite songs and breaks for special announcements. Check his available dates on the calendar, then a phone call will confirm your date!
Is Al Fuller a Qualified Music Instructor?
Al grew up in Western Massachusetts, graduated from Holyoke Community College with an Associates degree in Music, then went on to study at University of Massachusetts, where he minored in Music, majored in English, and graduated with a degree in English. This gave Al a strong background in music theory. Al taught guitar at Holyoke Community College before moving to this area. Al has literally taught thousands to play instruments. The answer is Yes, Al is eminently qualified to teach music.
Want to study music with Al?
Al received an Associates Degree in Music from Holyoke Community College, then went to University of Massachusetts, where he minored in Music, majored in English, and graduated with a degree in English. This gave Al a strong background in music theory. Al taught guitar at Holyoke Community College before moving to this area. When Al Fuller came to Sarasota over 25 years ago, the owners of Fogt's Music recognized his innate abilities as a teacher, and brought him on board at that time as their guitar teacher. Al has literally taught thousands to play guitar, banjo, bass guitar, ukulele, harmonica and more. Now, lessons can take place at Fogt's on certain dates, or at Al's home studio in South Sarasota.
The Critics Comments:
Phil Colpas from the Pelican Press heaps praise on Al's style saying, "At nearly six and a half feet, Al Fuller attracts attention for being tall, but it's his music that stands head and shoulders above the rest".