Duke Ellington: A Life in Music

Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was born in Washington, D.C., on April 29, 1899. His father was a butler and his mother was a pianist. Ellington began playing the piano at an early age, and by the time he was a teenager, he was playing in local clubs. In 1923, he formed his own orchestra, the Washingtonians, which would later become known as the Duke Ellington Orchestra.

Duke: A Life of Duke Ellington

by Terry Teachout

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	16512 KB
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Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	497 pages
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The Duke Ellington Orchestra quickly became one of the most popular jazz bands in the country. Ellington's music was a unique blend of swing, blues, and classical music. He was also a gifted composer, and he wrote some of the most famous jazz standards of all time, including "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)" and "Mood Indigo."Ellington's orchestra toured extensively throughout the United States and Europe, and he became one of the most famous and respected jazz musicians in the world. He was also a pioneer in the use of extended harmonies and dissonances in jazz, and his music helped to shape the sound of modern jazz.

In addition to his work as a musician, Ellington was also a successful composer and arranger. He wrote music for films, television, and Broadway shows, and he also collaborated with a number of other musicians, including Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and Count Basie.

Ellington died in New York City on May 24, 1974. He was 75 years old. He is considered one of the most important figures in the history of jazz, and his music continues to be enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ellington's Musical Style

Ellington's music was a unique blend of swing, blues, and classical music. He was also a gifted composer, and he wrote some of the most famous jazz standards of all time, including "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)" and "Mood Indigo."

Ellington's music is characterized by its elegance, sophistication, and swing. He was a master of orchestration, and he used his orchestra to create a rich and complex sound. Ellington's music is also known for its use of extended harmonies and dissonances, which helped to give it a unique and modern sound.

Ellington's Legacy

Ellington is considered one of the most important figures in the history of jazz. His music has had a profound influence on generations of musicians, and it continues to be enjoyed by people all over the world. Ellington's legacy is also evident in the many awards and honors he received during his lifetime, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Pulitzer Prize for Music.

Ellington's music is a timeless treasure that continues to inspire and delight listeners. He was a true innovator who helped to shape the sound of modern jazz. His music is a testament to his genius and his love of music.

Duke: A Life of Duke Ellington

by Terry Teachout

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	16512 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	497 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE