Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington
Duke Ellington was a band leader, composer and Jazz pianist who is remembered for his over 3000 compositions.
Ellington brought a level of style and sophistication to Jazz that it had not seen before. He was a gifted piano player but he considered himself to be a composer and arranger, rather than just a musician.
The "Duke"combined many elements of American music into his own unique style of Jazz. He joined 'The Washingtonians' band, but Ellington wanted to create a unique sound, something different from the style of the Washingtonians. When the band leader left, Duke Ellington took over and 'The Washingtonians' became 'Duke Ellington's orchestra'.
Duke Ellington's orchestra continued to perform for many years, and its name is still remebered amongst Jazz fans today.
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Ellington brought a level of style and sophistication to Jazz that it had not seen before. He was a gifted piano player but he considered himself to be a composer and arranger, rather than just a musician.
The "Duke"combined many elements of American music into his own unique style of Jazz. He joined 'The Washingtonians' band, but Ellington wanted to create a unique sound, something different from the style of the Washingtonians. When the band leader left, Duke Ellington took over and 'The Washingtonians' became 'Duke Ellington's orchestra'.
Duke Ellington's orchestra continued to perform for many years, and its name is still remebered amongst Jazz fans today.
Back to Popular Performers