Bill Fulton on keys or piano with Touch n Go Band
Bill Fulton Portland pianist June 18 1986 performance history includes this engagement with the Touch N Go Band. Fulton played keyboards or piano in the cocktail lounge at the former Red Lion Motor Inn. Today, the property is University Place Hotel and Conference Center.
Touch N Go Band in Portland
This Wednesday performance continued the band’s multi-night Portland engagement. An extended booking gave the musicians time to become familiar with the room. However, every night still presented a different audience and atmosphere.
Hotel guests could enter the lounge for an evening of live entertainment. Local residents might also visit specifically to hear the band. Therefore, the musicians needed to create a welcoming program for several types of listeners.
Fulton supported the ensemble from the keyboard chair. Piano provided a clear harmonic foundation and strong rhythmic accents. Meanwhile, electronic keyboards offered additional sounds when the music required them.
Responding to the Ensemble
A professional keyboard player must listen to every part of the group. The connection with the bass and drums helps establish the groove. At the same time, the accompaniment must leave space for singers and instrumental soloists.
Live performances can also change without warning. A section may be extended, or a song may begin at a different tempo. In addition, the bandleader may adjust the set list to fit the audience. Close attention helps the entire group respond together.
Fulton’s experience as an arranger strengthened his understanding of these musical relationships. An arranger considers balance, harmony, rhythm, and instrumental color. Those same elements influence the choices made by a keyboardist during a live performance.
The Former Red Lion Motor Inn
The engagement took place at 310 Southwest Lincoln Street in Portland, Oregon. The property now operates as University Place Hotel and Conference Center. At the time of this performance, it was known as the Red Lion Motor Inn.
The Bill Fulton Portland pianist June 18 1986 appearance documents another night from Fulton’s extensive professional career. It also preserves part of the Touch N Go Band’s regional performance history.
Learn more about Bill Fulton’s work as a keyboardist and pianist. You can also explore other appearances in the Bill Fulton Music events archive.
Event Details
- Artist: Touch N Go Band
- Keyboardist and pianist: Bill Fulton
- Date: June 18, 1986
- Venue: University Place Hotel and Conference Center, formerly the Red Lion Motor Inn
- Location: Portland, Oregon
Date/Time: June 18, 1986 12:00 am
Venue: University Place Hotel & Conference Center (fka Red Lion Motor Inn)
Address: 310 SW Lincoln St Portland, OR 97201
