Frederick Ellsworth Bigelow was born on August 20, 1873, in Ashland, Massachusetts, one of five brothers, all of whom were professional instrumentalists at some time in their lives. Bigelow studied music with Joseph Morrisette at Worcester Academy and then graduated from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy with the degree of Ph. G.

In 1892 Bigelow organized the Ashland Brass Band with Morrisette. It was during this time that Bigelow composed the famous "Our Director" march, which was dedicated to Morrisette. The march was published in 1895 by Jean M. Missud, leader of the Salem Cadet Band. Bigelow was a member of the band, playing the saxophone. The march was republished several times, both my Missud and other publishers. Initial presentation of this march (and others) was at the Sunday afternoon Read Fund concerts of the Salem Cadet Band.

Bigelow worked as a pharmacist in Salem for many years, opening his own business, the Forest River Pharmacy in 1913. He remained active as a musician, playing with the Salem Cadet Band when time permitted. He died at his home, 67 Loring Avenue, Salem on May 11, 1929 at the age of fifty-six years. He was survived by his wife, Nellie (nee Urann) Bigelow and two brothers, Charles and Eugene.