To All Lovers of Song and Music,
In 1876, while working as an engraver in his father's Philadelphia print shop, James
Welsh Pepper was inspired to combine his affinity for teaching music with the family
business. His deep love and knowledge of music, combined with business savvy and
a strong work ethic helped Pepper to build what would become the world's leading
sheet music retailer.
e story could have ended in 1941 when, aer years of decline, the company found
itself on the auction block. Instead, Harold Burtch, driven by his love for music, led
a small group of investors on a mission to save the "grand company." Since then, the
Burtch family has kept the dream alive, holding true to the very spirit that inspired
James Welsh Pepper 70 years before.
To the casual observer, these events may simply look like notes on a page of American
music history. Play them out, however, and they sound more like a symphony written
to honor the very love of music that unites us all—two families, one company—built
on an unmatched passion for service and excellence.
ank you for joining us in celebration of our first 140 years on a stage well set for
the next 140.
Sincerely,
Glenn Burtch
And the staff of J.W. Pepper
C E L E B R A T I N G 1 4 0 Y E A R S
T H E M U S I C L I V E S O N
jwpepper.com/since1876
