American Jazz Legend Duke Ellington Summary

American Jazz Legend Duke Ellington Summary
American jazz legend, Duke Ellington, said, "A problem is a chance for you to do your best,". He
said this meaning that if a problem exists, a person should do his best to solve it. Ellington spoke the
truth saying this. A problem is a chance for a person to do his best because he is able to make things
right, he will learn from it, he will feel proud for solving the problem at their best. To begin with,
problems give people a chance to make things right. For instance, two angry friends. A person has a
chance to apologize and resolve the problem. Furthermore, when a person hurt someone else's
feelings. They are able to kindly lift the other's spirits by apologizing and becoming wonderful
friends. Secondly, a person will learn from their
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The Importance Of Duke Ellington's Legacy
When it comes to legacies, we look for those that are able to stand the test of time. Duke Ellington
was one the many people who have left spectacular legacies. The importance behind his legacy is
the way how he took music, exclusively jazz, to a completely new, and higher, degree of complexity
and brilliance. He combined his rhythms and patterns into a completely new way that took jazz out
of a primitive state of chaos into a highly sophisticated style of perfection. Duke Ellington took a
new style of music and not only composed many pieces that are still listened to today, but has
inspired countless to make pieces of their own that are still listened to today. In Washington D.C., on
April 29th, 1899, Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was

Duke Ellington Quote
American jazz legend Duke Ellington said, "A problem is a chance for you to do your best." When I
hear this quote, all I can think about is that you have to fail to be successful the next time around. I
love what Duke Ellington said because when there's a problem, all I want to do is solve it and be my
best when I'm solving the problem. Every problem in life is just a way to make me a better person
and a better individual. Just like how Duke Ellington said, problems are just ways to be the best he
or she can possibly be. I love this quote because it makes me feel that it's alright to fail, because
when I fail it make me want to go back at it again. My favorite thing about this quote is that failing
is not always bad. Instead, failing

Inspired By The Harlem Renaissance: Zora Neale Hurston
Inspired By the Harlem Renaissance Lets talk about these wonderful people who were influenced by
the Harlem Renaissance. These people are amazing for being inspired by this. They took this era of
time to become great people.
Zora Neale Hurston was born on January 7, 1891, in Notasulga, Alabama. Hurston moved in with
her family when she was still a toddler to Eatonville, Florida. In Hurston's writings she never reveals
any recollection of her Alabama beginnings/life, for her Eatonville was always home. On May 1,
1925 at a literary awards dinner she claimed four awards: a second–place fiction prize for her short
story "Spunk," a second–place award in drama for her play Color Struck, and two honorable
mentions. The truth of the matter ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
His birth name is Edward Kennedy Ellington, but he got the nickname Duke when he was 7 yrs. old
when he started studying piano and because of his gentlemen ways. He was the son of James
Edward and Daisey Ellington. With his father, a Methodist, and his mother, a Baptist, his upbringing
had a strong religious influence. Ellington was an artistic child, he passed up an art scholarship to
study at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York in order to devote his time to his first love: music,
but specifically piano. By the age of fourteen Duke had written his first two pieces, "Soda Fountain
Rag" and "What You Gonna Do When The Bed Breaks Down?" By 1918 he established a reputation
as a band leader and a agent. In 1923 he went to New York City and soon became a successful
bandleader. In 1927 he secured an important engagement at the Cotton Club Harlem, a section of
New York City, and remained there (aside from occasional tours) until 1932. As a composer
Ellington was responsible for numerous works that achieved popular success, some written with his
band members and with his co–arranger Billy Strayhorn. Because most of his works were written
for his own band, interpretations by others have rarely been satisfactory. Ellington was the first jazz
composer to break the three–minute time limitation of 78–rpm record. After the 1940s he
concentrated more no longer works, including several suites (arrangements of music) built

Duke Ellington
Duke Ellington, the legendary jazz pianist, said that a problem is a chance to do your best, and I
agree with him. When people learn from their problems, it can help them in many ways. They can
learn how to do things better in the future, they can learn more about themselves and what they like
or dislike, and they can even be used to help someone who is having trouble with the same issue(s).
If I am having trouble I, can pause and reassess my strategy plan. A problem is a chance to try my
best. It trains me to solve problems. It makes me think about different ways to solve a problem. It
makes me work diligently on that specific issue. Problems teach me many things, and I try to work
very hard to achieve the goal solving the problem.

Essay On Duke Ellington
Duke Ellington: 1899–1974 Edward "Duke" Kennedy Ellington was born April 29, 1899 in
Washington, D.C. Duke Ellington was born into a typical family with average income and growing
up, the future musician was home–schooled by his parents. His father James Edward Ellington and
mother Daisy Kennedy Ellington were both pianist. His father played operatic arias while parlor
songs were his mother's first choice. It is an interesting fact that Duke is not actually Ellington's
name, but it is only his nickname, which children gave him when he was a little boy for his
aristocratic manners and the ability to dress elegant things. When Duke was seven years old, he
began his piano training and took lessons from Marietta Clinkscales. (Ruhlmann) Duke ... Show
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Ellington's band thrived and played all throughout Washington and Virginia, usually playing for
embassy and private parties. His band included Sonny Greer on drums, his childhood friend Otto
Hardwick on alto saxophone, Elmer Snowden on banjo and Arthur Whetsol on trumpet. The group
performed for both African–American and white audiences which was quite rare in those times.
When Ellington's drummer Sonny Greer joined the Wilber Sweatman Orchestra in New York City,
he decided to leave behind his successful career in Washington, D.C and moved to Harlem. Shortly
after his move to Harlem, in May of 1927, Andy Preer who had been leading the house band at the
Cotton Club died. In looking for a replacement, the gig went to Duke Ellington and his men. The
clubs decor was modelled after the old south of plantations and slavery, hence the name the "Cotton
Club". The club was segregated, meaning only whites were allowed in the audience, while all the
waiters and entertainers were African American. What made Duke Ellington and his Cotton Club
Orchestra famous were the weekly broadcasts on radio station WHN. (Cotton) These broadcasts
were heard all over the country and gave Ellington national exposure. With the Great Depression
worsening, the recording industry too was hit by the financial crisis and that resulted into dropping
of over 90% of artist by the year 1933. (Ruhlmann) In the case of

The Music Of Duke Ellington
I attended the Jazz Ensembles Concert, The Music of Duke Ellington, on Wednesday, September 30,
2015 at the Griffin Concert Hall, University Center for the Arts. I was not really sure what to expect
since I had never experienced Jazz in a concert hall setting, however, I believe I am still able to
make an informed and unbiased review.
Not only was this my first Jazz concert, but it was also my first time visiting the University Center
for the Arts. I was greeted immediately and with a very welcoming attitude by staff that was willing
to guide me in the right direction when locating the entrance to the Griffin Concert Hall. I felt for
such a professional environment I should have been paying a lot of money to be enjoying a show at
this facility. Proceeding into the concert hall I observed a nearly every seat full with people of all
ages. I sat rather close to the stage so I could get a good look and really observe facial expressions
and demeanor of the personnel.
After peaking though my program to better understand what to expect throughout the concert, I
realized there were going to be two performances with 2 different ensembles as well as directors.
Promptly at 7:30 pm, the band of Jazz Ensemble II came out, gathered their places on stage, and
began to play "Things Ain't What They Used to Be" by Mercer Ellington. I immediately recognized
the stereotypical jazz setup such as the primary melodic instruments: saxophones, trumpets,
trombones, as well as the piano, bass and

Duke Ellington Problem
"A problem is a chance for you to do your best." Duke Ellington was an American icon in the Jazz
industry, and largely because he took this quote and put it to work when faced with any challenge. I
agree with this statement, because it represents the true meaning of doing any work to the best of
your ability. Being motivated to do your best when tough challenges are presented can unlock
creativity and brilliance that you didn't even know you were capable of, and can lead to great
accomplishments throughout your lifetime. This is statement is true mainly because almost any
problem can be solved through hard work and dedication, amazing things can happen when you try
your best, and something can always be made out of nothing. One reason that

Louis Armstrong And Duke Ellington
As we all know that over the years the music genre Jazz has changed dramatically. With all the
changes that has happened some aspects of the genre remained or endured little change. One trait in
jazz that remained throughout all the success of the genre is certain composers. The instruments had
a slight change through the years but it still continue to be tight throughout.
Throughout jazz there is a couple of ledges that had their hands in the success of the jazz genre as a
whole. Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington are two composters that single handily contributed to
the evolution of jazz. Both Louis and Armstrong performed for over fifty years. With this amount of
time performing they both touch many eras in jazz. Although Duke was very influential during this
time period I like Louie timeline more. Most likely because we are both from New Orleans and I
feel closer to him.
Before Armstrong had a great influenced on jazz music there was the Dixieland. So, before Louis
Armstrong came around everyone was playing the Dixieland style of music. Dixieland style was
more of the classical orchestrated structures. Within the bad everyone knew their roles and that
wasn't change. Everyone knew that the Bass was there for the low–pitched walking baseline which
outlined the harmony. That the piano provided the syncopated commentary along with comping and
the guitar provided the solos. While the drums provided things like swing, kicked of the solos and
many more. Dixieland was

Essay on A Portrait of Duke Ellington by Tracy Frech
A Portrait of Duke Ellington By Tracy Frech
Duke Ellington is considered to be one of the greatest figures in the history of
American music. Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was born in Washington D.C. on
April 29, 1899. His parents were James Edward and Daisy Kennedy Ellington. They raised Duke as
an only child, until his sister, Ruth, was born when Duke was sixteen years old. Duke, even as a
teenager, had a great talent for music. In the beginning of his musical life, Duke began to take a
promising interest in a new type of music that would later be called jazz. Choosing to base his career
on a new idea may not have been smart, but Duke did take this chance and in turn became one of the
most famous musicians in America.
Duke's ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
In the Autumn of 1927, luck had crossed paths with Duke again. The manager of Duke's band,
Irving Mills, had heard that the prestigious cotton club was looking for a new band and immediately
Irving began campaigning for Duke. Duke and his band opened on December 4, 1927 to meet a mad
rush of spectators who eagerly awaited to hear Dukes newest pieces. Duke's band became very
prosperous and they had their own spot on the Cotton Club floor with special lighting and
accommodations. At the year of 1928 the band consisted of Bubber Miley, Freddy Jenkins, and
Arthur
Whetsol on trumpet, joined with Tricky Sam Nanton, and Juan Tizol on trombone.
Johnny Hodges, now on alto sax, with Barney Bigard doubled on tenor sax and clarinet, and finally
Harry Carney at seventeen years old joined on bari sax.
Carney was known as one of the first people in a band ever to use the bari sax as a solo instrument.
While Duke's band was performing at the Cotton Club, his band participated in more than sixty–four
recording sessions.
In 1931 Duke grew so tired of the show–business routines that he decided to try his luck again on
his own. When he arrived in New York his band grew to almost three times what it originally had
been at the Cotton Club.
Duke feared that this would become a very serious problem considering how the stock market
crashed in late 1929 and millions of people across the United States were out of work. Somehow,
though,

MHL 145 Chapter 6 Essay
1. Describe the ways in which swing music and popular culture were interrelated during the time
known as the swing era.
There were many ways in which swing music and popular culture were interrelated during the time
known as the swing era. Jazz became the cornerstone of popular culture during the period known as
the swing era. The swing era influenced clothing styles, retail marketing, fashion, dance, and even
language. Swing fans had their own clothing style and built a social phenomenon around it. With
many dances coming and going the swing fans kept on dancing.
3. Name some of the specific innovations Duke Ellington brought to jazz in the 1930's and 1940's.
Duke Ellington brought some specific innovations to jazz in the ... Show more content on
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They traveled around on tour to get a spot and had been denied, until their last stop in Los Angeles,
CA. The Palomar Ballroom wanted to hear the music that had been broadcasting and this began the
swing era. The swing era decided to collapse with a shocking suddenness, with bands all over
closing up their bags and shutting down. The swing era had suddenly ended from changing
economics, the war, predictability, the changing audience, and bebop all of this had ended what was
known as the swing era.
10. Describe how the styles of Lester Young and Coleman Hawkins were different.
The styles from Lester Young and Coleman Hawkins were very different throughout the swing era.
Hawkins and Young were two of the best tenor sax players that had emerged during the swing era.
Considerably different, Hawkins played a huge dark sound, whereas Young's was light and breathy.
Some of the differences were as follows; Hawkins improvisations were based on his superior
knowledge of harmony, Young's were rooted in the blues, Hawkins played with a rhythmic approach
that was always closely tied to the beat, and Young's rhythmic conception was much looser, and
often untied to the beat. Although they had many differences, they inspired sax players for years to
come.
1. The arranging styles of Ellington and Basie are quite different when put next to each other to
compare and contrast. In the song "Take the A Train" by Duke Ellington the rhythm

Billy Strayhorn's Impact On The Development Of Jazz
The development of jazz was due to the contributions of many significant musicians that viewed
music differently. Jazz became a popular genre and thus evolved into big band jazz. Duke
Ellington's Orchestra is an example of a big band that depicted the art form of jazz and with the help
of Billy Strayhorn it gained popularity, as well as jazz. Billy Strayhorn's impact on the development
of jazz was through his impact on the Duke Ellington Orchestra, compositions and arrangements of
jazz songs, and influence on other musicians. To begin with, jazz evolved due to the popularity of
big bands like the Duke Ellington Orchestra that brought this art form to the people in different
places. Duke Ellington was a significant bandleader and musician ... Show more content on
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Not only did he help Duke Ellington when troubled harmonically or melodically, but he made the
individuals of the big bands sound their best based on their unique qualities. He took in mind what
each individual in a big band must play. Ellington as a bandleader would find the best musicians
based on their uniqueness, which was what inspired him to compose songs. Taking this into account,
Strayhorn had to focus on the full orchestra and had to "...write out the individual instrumental parts
for each member...(Hajd)." After several magnificent compositions and arrangements based on Hajd,
he expanded by writing an arrangement for Mary Martin, an actress and singer. Besides the works
Strayhorn did in collaboration with Ellington, his greatest composition without any Ellington
associations was "Lush Life." This song was allows the musicians play it with smoothly because
according to Guitarist Mundell Lowe, it is "one of the few songs he knows that requires no
improvisation because the line as written cannot be improved (Sales)." Since jazz is a genre that is
mostly composed of improvisation, the fact that "Lush Life" requires no improvisation depicts not
only that it is well composed, but also that it is a unique with its melodic invention and lyrics. In
other words, it is a perfect piece for any musicians or bands to

The Most Influential African American Composers Of The...
Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington
Duke Ellington is considered to be one of the most influential African–American composers of the
twentieth century. He was a composer, bandleader, songwriter, and a musician. Duke Ellington was
born in Washington D.C on April 29, 1899 and died on May 24, 1974 in New York, New York.
Often times, Duke's music was called "American Music" because it was for America, later his music
was placed under the category of Jazz. After his death, Duke's musical reputation was widely spread
across America gaining more popularity.
Many jazz artist do not write their own music but Duke composed most of hs albums and
compositions. Duke composed his songs so that every player in his orchestra would sound their best
and each instrument was emphasized. He mainly focused on rhythm and how each instrument would
sound together and how it would make the audience feel. Duke had many famous songs but a few
are: "If it Ain't Got That Swing," "Sophisticated Lady," "Take The 'A Train." Over his 50 year
musical career he won many honors and awards for his songs.
At the young age of seven, Duke's musical career was beginning to show its head, his parents placed
him into piano lessons. He did not too much care for music at the time and would have rather played
sports. He later found out that he did not desire to play the piano, often missing most of his lessons,
but later on he would come to realize he loved the instrument. He did not know how to read music
or write it

Duke Ellington: The Perfect Nation
The Perfect Nation
In this sentimental bliss
You make my paradise complete
Rose petals seem to fall
It's all I could dream to call you mine
–Duke Ellington (lyrics from Sentimental mood)
During the years of 1920's to 1945 for Americans experienced, for example, the rush and excitement
of the Harlem residence, the flappers and music. In addition, towns became cities and farms suffered
from the dust bowl. ("disillusion, defiance and discontent" page 689–701) an important person
living during this era, Duke Ellington because he was a musician furthermore an event that had a
major impact was prohibition during this time. Lastly one of the invention that effected America the
most was the bread slicer. it able to have perfectly sliced bread for ... Show more content on
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In the period, prohibition on alcohol was enforced in the United States. Trying to have less drunken
accidents and making drunks and making a happier and "better" or "perfect" family so they could
look and be better than the Russians. A person that proven to be prefect in the nations eyes was
Duke Ellington, the unique composer in the Harlem resistance, a creative young prodigy starting
piano at the age of 7 and ten years later be professionally playing in a sextet ensemble, slowly
expand to soon be a ten–piece ensemble. Finally, an Invention that changed American households,
was the bread slicer. The changes it made was that it made meal times ten times easier when it came
to wanting to make toast or sandwich especially for larger families, cutting soft light bread is very
hard if not done right making it long and hard process and making bread at home the slices would be
all weird and different shapes this way it was easy faster and perfect tasting, looking bread. This era
included, proved to be one of the most perfection seeking era that shows Americans wanted to be
more perfect than the Russians, Americans rival in the race of who's

Edward Kennedy Ellington Research Paper
Great American Composers
Over the course of history, the arts have played an important role in aspects of people's lives. More
specifically, music is something that has been around for centuries and will continue to play a part in
shaping people into who they are. There have been numerous talented composers in America, but
some worth mentioning are Duke Ellington, George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin.
Though music has been around for generations, during the 1900's, Duke Ellington was a famous
composer in the Americas. Edward Kennedy Ellington was born on April 29, 1899 in Washington
D.C. to a religious family; his mother was a Baptist and his father was a Methodist ("Duke," n.d.).
Ellington had a passion for piano during his childhood; he had started taking piano at the age of
seven ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
He also won numerous Grammy Awards as well as the Spingarn Medal from the National
Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Ellington continued to compose and
perform music until he died from lung cancer in May of 1974. He will always be remembered for
"the daring innovations that came to mark his music–the strange modulations (changing from one
key to another) built upon lush melodies that ramble into unexpected places, the unorthodox
(untraditional) construction of songs...." ("Duke," n.d.).
Not only was Duke Ellington well–known for his involvement in jazz during the 1900's, George
Gershwin was also popular during that time. Gershwin was born in Brooklyn in 1898 to a family of
immigrants. He left school at the age of 15 in order to work as a "song plugger" (a pianist that
demonstrated songs) on Tin Pan Alley (Hingley, 2013). He soon began to write his own pieces, and
his first published song was "When You Want 'Em, You Can't Get "Em"; although this song was
composed of new techniques, he only received five dollars ("George,"

Alvin Ailey And The Civil Rights Movement
Alvin Ailey was a phenomenal choreographer, dancer, and activist whose work focused on the
narrative of the African American during the Great Depression and the Civil Rights Movement.
Informed and inspired by black church services, gospel music, and everything spiritual, the
collaborations between him and Duke Ellington come as no surprise. Ellington's career also focused
on depicting "the character and mood and feeling of [his] people", except he executed this artistry
through musicianship in composing, conducting, songwriting, and bandleading. Together, they were
both able to uplift and celebrate the Black American and their rich culture, during a time of trauma
and the unforgivable horrors of slavery, meanwhile revolutionizing and ... Show more content on
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The amount of respect and willingness that these artists carried created environments of conceptual
safety wherever they went, which is what truly allowed their art to become as compelling as it is.
The two were also fortunate and successful enough to be able to travel globally, which certainly
enabled even more space for artistic growth and evolution. The two both shared a love of exploring
"the tempo of life in foreign countries, to savor the various foods, arts, and music of native people."
Ellington had the upper hand in travels since he began performing a bit earlier than Ailey did, but I
do believe that his travels to Europe and North Africa definitely catalyzed the creative push it took
to create The River. Traveling is the best thing anyone can do for themselves, but it's that much more
essential for an artist to do too. Ellington was one of the first to introduce Spanish spice into jazz
and does so within this composition, presented primarily within the introduction of the ever playful
french horn. Because this is still very much a ballet piece, this playfulness is also apparent within
the wafting woodwinds, and through the percussive instrumentation of what might be the
glockenspiel. Seeing as this was Ellington's first composition of symphonic scale, the variety of
sounds and moods is extensive, and its complexity would otherwise might not have been as
thorough had he not traveled as much as he did. Shortly afterwards in 1971, Ailey choreographed

Essay on Biography of Edward Kennedy Ellington
Biography of Edward Kennedy Ellington "I'm just an up and coming musician struggling to find
another new note." –Duke Ellington Edward Kennedy Ellington was born April 29th 1899 in
Washington, DC. From an early age, Ellington was instilled with solid, conservative morals. He was
taught to pride himself and his family and to achieve to the utmost of his dreams. At such a crucial
time in the history of the African American, there was a struggle to be accepted and to fit into the
American culture that so far had not embraced them. This held true for Ellington's family. As
Ellington said of his father, he always "acted as though he had money, whether he had it or not."[1]
This sentiment and ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Not only was Ellington raised in a refined and proper manner, he was also exposed to luxuries
unimaginable to most lower class black families of the time. They would receive china and
silverware, clothes and anything else naturally only gently used. If it were not for this, it would
probably be impossible for the Ellington's to own a piano, let alone two of them! Ellington's family
was "part of a social group whose morals were steadfastly Victorian and often puritanical in
outlook...Ellington was encouraged to become an achiever, and was taught pride in his race and a
duty to represent it well." [3] The attitude and confidence that his family possessed is what led
Ellington on the path that he took. The steadfast belief and faith that his family had in him is what
encouraged Ellington to continue on and to persevere in life. Piano lessons did not go well in
Ellington's early life. He was uninterested in the hobby and as he said, "I missed more lessons than I
took...After all, baseball, football, track and athletics were what real he–men were identified with".
[4] It was not until several years later, while working in a hotel down at the Jersey shore that
someone suggested Ellington stop in Philadelphia on the way home to hear a pianist by the name of
Harvey Brooks. Brooks was around the same age as Ellington and seeing another pianist

Duke Ellington's Impact On Popular Music
Considered one of the greatest jazz composers of all time. Duke Ellington had an enormous impact
on the popular music in the late 1920s. For almost fifty years he toured the world as a bandleader
and piano player. Today his recordings are among the most popular jazz of the big–band era.
Born in Washington D.C. in 1899 Edward Kennedy Ellington was his name or better known as
"Duke" began playing piano as a child. His mother who also played the piano saw his education and
by the time he was seventeen he began playing professionally. Becoming a famous piano player in
Washington D.C. Ellington started to make his own music. In 1922 he moved to New York and by
1923 he formed his own band called the Washingtonians. By 1926 Ellington's band had found a
small amount of fans and started playing their music at Harlem's famous Cotton Club. This was to
be a major turning point in his career, providing him with access to larger audiences through radio
and recordings.
The group grew larger in size in size and Ellington took the chance to be a leader in it. They played
in what was called "jungle" style their slick arrangements often recognized by the sound of
trumpeter James "Bubber" Miley. A good example of this is Ellington's first signature song, "East St.
Louis ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
For Ellington the big band was not simply made up of four trumpets, three trombones, drums, a
bass, and a piano. It was made up of people who had instruments. Were other musicians had thought
themselves with creating a sound that brought the many instruments into one sound. Ellington
believed in letting the sound of each musician play against each other. He wrote music that topped
the particular style and skills of his career. The best members of his band were Jimmy Blanton,
Johnny Hodges, Cootie Williams, and Harry Carney (who was in the band for nearly every one of its
47

Edward Kenny Ellington's Soda Fountain Rag
"Music is my mistress, and she plays second fiddle to no one"
Edward Kenny Ellington was born on April 29, 1899 to James Edward Ellington and daisy Ellington
in Washington dc. Edward was born in to a family of musician both of his parents played the piano.
At the sage of seven he began taking piano lessons, by his teenage years he was already writing his
own music. His first compassion ever "Soda Fountain Rag" was at the age of 15, he started playing
professionally at 17, Duke Ellington 50 years of compositions, and a lot of his great work came
from his teenage years and his late 20s. in 1923 duke and some of his friends came to New York
they form the group the Washingtonians, they took part in the Harlem Renaissance and started
playing in homes for income. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
One Time I was at a restaurant and "Caravan" came on and I noticed how the older folks responded
to the beat, the same way we respond to our generation of Music. After that day I went and googled
up the song and I found out that it was Duke Ellington who composed that song.
"Like The Duke'', In a sentimental Mood'' ''Take the A train'' where songs that made me like jazz,
that made me sit down and listen this genre of music, there are a lot of great jazz composers in
history of music but Duke Ellington was one of the best till this day we still hear his music play. His
type of jazz was really relax very smoothing extremely unorthodox. Duke Ellington managed his
band for almost 50 years making prodigious music and using amazing instruments. He toured all
over Europe, he managed to compose an orchestra without a baton, how amazing is that. In his
whole music career, he composed about 2000 pieces and won 12 Grammy

Duke Ellington: The Most Influential Jazz Poet
Duke Ellington is one of the most influential jazz figures. Although, he preferred to call his genre of
play "American Music" rather than jazz. He and his band were known for creating very distinctive
styles of music which influenced much of the Western music. Ellington earned much recognition
and given rewards for feats in his lifetime.
Edward Kennedy Ellington, also known as Duke Ellington, was born on April 29, 1899. He was the
son of James Edward Ellington who was a butler, and Daisy Kennedy who was a housekeeper, so he
was able to live in the middle class with a pretty comfortable life. Both of his parents were
musicians so they influenced and encouraged him to explore music. He also had a sister but she was
born much later than him. Ellington started to play piano at the age of seven but he didn't really
enjoy it and much rather preferred basketball. When he reached his teen years, he started to really
get into music and started to compose professionally. He attended Armstrong Technological High
School but dropped out during junior year. During his time he was offered a scholarship to some of
the best universities but turned them down to pursue his music career. ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
They started out performing around Washington D.C. and eventually started eventually performed
throughout Virginia. They performed for many African Americans and some whites also but that
was on occasion. Their first performance was at the True Reformer's Hall. Ellington eventually
decided to disband after band members started to leave and he also wanted to travel out of
Washington D.C. Ellington eventually married Edna Thompson on July 2, 1918, which is when he
was only 19. Around a year later on March 11, 1919, they had a child named Mercer Kennedy

Duke Ellington: the Music, Politics, and His Story
Duke Ellington: The Music, Politics, and his Story Duke Ellington was a musical and political
genius; he was "America's only original musical mind." He was not only a performer, but a
composer. He learned the craft of composing by observing others instead of disciplined study. One
important factor of Ellington's music was its relation to black heritage and African American history.
His symphony "Black, Brown, and Beige" displayed the African American struggle in America. Not
only did Ellington use his music to portray the struggle, voice, and triumph of black Americans, he
used his professionalism, originality, persuasiveness, and political performances. Edward Kennedy
Ellington was born in 1899 and composed, arranged, and ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net
...
When he wrote a composition, he did so with the characteristic sound of the soloist in mind. An
example of a musician with a distinctive sound is Johnny Hodges. Johnny Hodges was a member of
Duke's orchestra who had "complete independence of expression", Ellington said. Ellington also
stated that Hodges was the only man he knew who could pick up a cold horn and still play in tune.
The specific sound of the individual was so important to a piece that if a member was to leave, the
composition would almost always be omitted. Solos were atypically transferred to another musician.
When Ellington composed pieces, he only had his own band in mind. This is why his orchestra's
sound cannot be imitated without sounding watered down. The unique style and tone qualities of the
individuals made the orchestra nearly impossible to replicate. One thing that was often
misunderstood about Ellington's career was that he had two of them: bandleader and composer. He
was famous for recording his own compositions as well as endorsements. He often composed music
all through the night, and it has been said that he never went a day without composing something,
whether it be a couple lines of a song or an entire piece. He would write music whenever and
wherever he had the time to do it. Once, he even had to write a piece by the light of his band
manager consecutively lighting matches. Ellington believed that music allowed him to express
himself without

Duke Ellington Essay
Duke Ellington
Duke Ellington's pre–eminence in jazz is not only because of the very high aesthetic standard of his
output and not simply due to his remarkable abilities as a pianist, composer and bandleader, but also
to the fact that he has extended the boundaries of jazz more than any other musician, without
abandoning the true essence of the music. Perhaps no other American musician left such a massive
and challenging legacy in composition and performance.
Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was born in Washington, D.C. on April 29, 1899, to parents
James Edward and Daisy Kennedy Ellington. Duke, even as a teenager, had a great talent for music.
His school music teacher, Mrs. Clinkscales, who played the piano, was always the ... Show more
content on Helpwriting.net ...
He would arrange dance bands for weddings and parties for extra money. He put his knowledge of
piano playing to use and played at a few of the dance parties and weddings. After employing his
artistic talent in painting posters, Duke then decided to put together his own band.
This new music, known as jazz, was considered to be low and vulgar because it was music that grew
directly out of the Black culture. In the early years of Duke's career, segregation was at one of its all
time worst points in history. In time, jazz became a universally recognized form of art, and has been
said that it is the only real form that has originated from the American soul.
Duke, himself, was an elegant man. When the white people looked down on the black man and his
music, Duke managed to bring dignity to every one of his performances. Once, the jazz historian
Leonard Feather described Duke as, "an inch over six feet tall, sturdily built, he had an innate
grandeur that would have enabled him to step with unquenched dignity out of a mud puddle."
Duke's private life was something of an enigma. Although he had many friends, he never really told
them everything about himself. He would often guard his privacy, probably because he had so little
of it. When he was alone though, he would almost always be arranging the next tune for the band to
play, and was always preparing something for the band to do in the next performance. Duke

Duke Ellington : The Duke's Serenader
Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was born April 29th, 1899 in Washington DC to James Edward
Ellington and Daisy Ellington. His parents were both pianists, and Duke would later follow suit. At
the age of seven Duke began piano lessons, but didn't really gain interest in piano till he was 14. At
age 15, Ellington wrote his first song, the 'Soda Fountain Rag'. He did not know how to read and
write music at this time in his life, so his tune was crafted by ear. Later, Ellington would learn to
read sheet music from Oliver "Doc" Perry, another known pianist. After more education, Duke
began to play gigs in clubs and cafes in his home city. His love for music was so strong at this time
that Duke actually turned down an art scholarship, and dropped out of school to pursue his passion
and make his full time career his music.1 When he was 20 years old, Duke met Sonny Greer, a
fellow musician who's focus was percussion and drums. This acquaintance helped encourage
Ellington to become a professional musician. From here, Ellington would use every chance he had
to build his music business, asking strangers if they knew how to play. In 1917 Ellington formed his
first group, The Duke's Serenaders. Duke was both the pianist and the booking agent for the group,
and the group was successful during the time, especially because it had both White and African–
American artists among its members.1 Later, Ellington would decide to leave DC and move to
Harlem, New York, joining the artistic movement that was happening there. Eventually, Ellington
and his group would do several songs with Adelaide Hall. One of the most popular songs created by
the artists was 'Creole Love Call', which became a worldwide sensation. His fame would only grow
from here. Eventually, in 1956, Ellington would perform at the Newport Jazz Festival. His concert
there would make international headlines, and even make TIME magazine. After many musical
achievements, and writing around 1000 compositions, Ellington died May 24th, 1974 at age 75.1
One of Duke's more popular albums, titled 'Such Sweet Thunder' and released in 1957 was created
as a 12 part suite representing Shakespeare's plays and characters, and was intended for the 1957

Charles Mingus Essay
Eddie K.
Jazz 219
Charles Mingus Charles Mingus is a very important and influential name in jazz; however he is left
out by many historians when talking about the history of jazz. The main reason he is left out by so
many historians, Mark Gridley in particular, is because of his attitude and ego. He is clearly not the
most pleasant person, and he surely does not display how a real jazz musician should act, at least
according to most historians. The way he acts during performances can be quite startling at first, if
you are not familiar with his ways and methods of playing. For example, he was known for using
profanity during performances, either geared at the audience if they were being too loud or the
sound operators if the ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Another chapter I would also include him in would be Chapter 5, 'How Swing Differs from Early
Jazz'. I would include Mingus in this chapter as well because it talks so much of his most influential
Jazz artist, and at one point fellow band mate, Duke Ellington. I feel like Mingus truly does have
enough variance in his music to help point out and draw the fine line between early jazz and the
newer 'swing' jazz. The main differences between these two categories of jazz are that in early jazz,
you were a lot less likely to have the 'big band feel' to the music, and soloist played a more
important role in early jazz, whereas in the 'swing' era, you were introduced to more of a variety of
instruments as well as new techniques on how to play them. Mingus puts out good examples and
songs/performances that clearly display how things transitioned from early Jazz to swing, and then
onto other evolutions of jazz as well. After learning and hearing many of Charles Mingus's music, I
definitely feel it is unfair for any historian to leave him out of an in depth jazz history book. I hope
jazz book writers to come take note of Mingus's accomplishments, and start to include him in the
history books right up there with Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, and Louis Armstrong. It is only fair
to him and his fellow band mates, however, only time will

Billy Strayhorn: Edward Kennedy Ellington
Billy Strayhorn Over the course of the 20th century, perhaps no composer was as accomplished, as
prolific, as loved as Edward Kennedy Ellington. For decades, Ellington – known as "Duke" –
created thousands of timeless, essential jazz compositions. As a bandleader, pianist, and composer,
Ellington's contributions to jazz and his breadth of work were unmatched. Despite Ellington's
genius, there was another composer – arguably as talented and unique – that shadowed Ellington's
every step, ultimately pushing his music to new creative heights. This composer was a short,
bespectacled Ohioan named Billy Strayhorn. From 1938 till his death in 1967, Billy Strayhorn
worked alongside Ellington, collaborating with Ellington on hundreds of pieces as well ... Show
more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Strayhorn's greatest influence can best be seen in the impact that he had on Ellington's music and
subsequently, jazz as a whole. Strayhorn's studious, analytical nature, paired with his experience
with classical music made him a critical component of many of Ellington's arrangements and pieces,
particularly long–form pieces. With Strayhorn's help, Ellington was able to create and introduce jazz
pieces that were much longer in duration and more complex in structure. Through their work, jazz
music, once seen as pure dancing music, could accompany a theatrical production or act as the score
of a film, ultimately elevating the perception of jazz as a higher, more diverse art form. In addition,
many of Strayhorn's compositions such as "Lush Life" and "Passion Flower" possessed a melodic
and structural complexity that was incredibly unique and sophisticated for jazz music, influencing a
departure of traditional jazz composition (Hosiasson). Furthermore, Strayhorn's jazz compositions
such as "Chelsea Bridge" and "Take the 'A' Train" – primarily known as Ellington pieces – have
been interpreted and recorded countless times by artists ranging from Wynton Marsalis to Ella
Fitzgerald to Dave Brubeck, further solidifying his presence within jazz canon. Ultimately,
Strayhorn's work helped elevate the complexity and creativity of jazz – helping push the realms of
jazz

How Did Billie Holiday Contribute To Duke Elley's Life
The life of Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday Two of the most influential Jazz musicians of their
time were Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday. Duke Ellington was one of the most successful
musicians, changing the way the world saw Jazz and making it an American icon. Billie Holiday
was known for her incredible voice, which was known as one of the greatest Jazz voices of all time.
Both Ellington and Holiday's music was the influence for the types of Jazz seen today. All in all,
they both made major contributions to the world of Jazz and donated their life doing so. Duke
Ellington had an early start into the world of music. At the age of four, he listened to his mother play
a tune known as " The Rosary" and cried after stating how pretty the music was (Gottlieb 2012).
This was the beginning of his interest in music. At the age of fifteen, while working at a soda
fountain, he wrote his first song "Soda Fountain Rag," and at his late teens was making enough
music to help his parents afford a better house. He was even witnessed as playing his first
professional gig so long ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
He was best known for five best works including; "It Don't Mean a Thing if It Ain't Got That
Swing", "Sophisticated Lady", "Mood Indigo", "Solitude", "In a Mellotone", and "Satin Doll"
(Ellington 2008). He received many prestigious awards throughout his career some of which from
the leader of the free world. President Lyndon Johnson presented him with the President's Gold
Medal in 1966, while President Richard M Nixon presented him with the Medal of Freedom in
1969. Duke Ellington also received 13 Grammy Awards, the Pulitzer Prize, was awarded the French
Legion of Honor in 1973, and has a United States Commemorative stamp with his image on it
issued in 1986 (Ellington 2008). Duke influenced millions of people around the world during his
fifty year long career, playing over 20,000 performances and composing over 3,000

Duke Ellington
The Harlem Renaissance was an era full of life, excitement, and activity. The world in all aspects
was in gradual recovery from the depression. The world of music was expanding, sharing it's
enthusiasm throughout the world. The evolution of jazz aroused the curiosity of the nation. As
Blacks received their freedom, they were able to express themselves as talented individuals. Certain
blacks contributed immensely to the era of jazz, for example, Duke Ellington. Ellington entered a
brand–new, exciting era as he grew up. As Ellington became an adolescent, the entertainment world
was undergoing rapid, change. The change was driven by the deep, persuasive shift in the
American spirit. The country was anxious to recover ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
In December 1927, Ellington presented one of the most famous openings in jazz history. During the
time of the Harlem Renaissance, everyone had different opinions on the new style of music. Some
enjoyed listening to the new style of music while others had a taste for the old, more familiar styles.
Ned Williams, who became Ellington's publicist, commented on Ellington's first performance at the
Cotton
Club, "I can't say I was too much impressed with the Ellington crew on that visit. It definitely didn't
have the form and polish it acquired later on." (Collier, 80) The Cotton
Club was the ideal setting for the Duke Ellington Orchestra. It's "jungle" atmosphere was perfect for
the style of music Ellington was expected to play. Ellington remarks about the setting of the club:
"During one period at the Cotton Club, much attention was paid to acts with an African setting, and
to accompany these we developed what was termed a 'jungle style' jazz" (93)
The Cotton Club lost some of its freshness as performers played dazzling, yet emotionless jazz but
Ellington brought his own style of music which interested the nation's people. During the Cotton
Club years, the Duke Ellington Orchestra began to win distinction for its thorough musicians and
homogeneity. Ellington was fighting to be admired in the popular music business and because of the
Cotton Club opportunity, he was.

Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was an American composer, pianist, and bandleader of a jazz
orchestra. Duke's career spanned over half a century during which he composed thousands of songs,
and was a member in numerous bands. Duke Ellington was one of if not the greatest musician
during the Harlem Renaissance. Born on April 29, 1899 in Washington D.C, Duke was raised by
two musically talented parents; James Edward Ellington and Daisy Kennedy Ellington. At the age of
seven Duke began studying piano and music. His mother, who also played the piano, oversaw his
education. Duke got the name "Duke" for his gentlemanly ways. At the age of fifteen he wrote his
first song "Soda Fountain Rag" inspired by his job as a soda jerk. Duke began preforming
professionally at the age of seventeen. At the age of nineteen, Duke ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
In 1923 he moved to New York, and the following year formed his own band, The Washingtonians.
Duke's band had found a small base of fans and secured an engagement at Harlem's famous Cotton
Club. This proved to be a major turning point in his career, providing him with access to larger
audience through radio and recordings. By the late 1920's Duke was performing in Broadway
nightclubs and made hundreds of recordings with his bands, as well as preforming in films and on
the radio. Duke's fame rose to the rafters in the 1940's when he composed several works including
"Concerto for Cootie," "Cotton Tail" and "Ko–Ko". Duke's most famous jazz tune was "Take the A
Train". It was Ellington's sense of musical drama that people loved so much. Duke brought a level
of style and sophistication to Jazz that it had not seen

Duke Ellington Biography
Duke Elington Duke Ellington was an American jazz bandleader, composer, and pianist. He is
thought of as one the greatest figures in jazz. The French government honored him with their highest
award, the Legion of Honor, while the government of the United States awarded him with the
highest civil honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He played for the royalty and for the
common people and by the end of his fifty–year career, he had played over 20,000 performances
worldwide. He was the Duke, Duke Ellington.
Edward Kennedy was his real name; he was born on April 29, 1899 in Washington, D.C. Duke's
parents Daisy Kennedy Ellington and James Edward Ellington served as ideal role models for Duke
and taught him everything ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
While vacationing in Asbury Park, Duke heard of a good pianist named Harvey Brooks. At the end
of his vacation Duke sought Harvey out in Philadelphia where Harvey showed Duke some pianist
tricks and shortcuts. Duke now had a real yearning to play when he got home. Soon later Duke's
music career started.
Duke met Oliver "Doc" Perry and Louis Brown who helped teach him how to read music and helped
improve his overall piano playing skills. Duke found some jobs playing at clubs and cafes in the
Washington area. Three months before Duke graduated he dropped out of school and began his
professional music career.
Duke formed his own music group called, The Duke's Serenaders, in late 1917. Between 1918 and
1919, Duke made three important steps towards independence. First, he moved out of his parents
home and into a home he bought for himself. Second, Duke became his own booking agent for his
band. By doing that Duke's band was able to play through out the Washington area and into Virginia
for private society balls and embassy parties. Finally, Duke married Edna Thompson and on March
11, 1919, Mercer Kennedy Ellington was born.
Duke left the security that Washington offered him and moved to New York, in 1923. Through the
power of radio, listeners through out New York had heard of Duke Ellington,

Essay on A Portrait Of Duke Ellington By Tracy Frech
A Portrait of Duke Ellington By Tracy Frech
Duke Ellington is considered to be one of the greatest figures in the history of
American music. Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was born in Washington D.C. on
April 29, 1899. His parents were James Edward and Daisy Kennedy Ellington. They raised Duke as
an only child, until his sister, Ruth, was born when Duke was sixteen years old. Duke, even as a
teenager, had a great talent for music. In the beginning of his musical life, Duke began to take a
promising interest in a new type of music that would later be called jazz. Choosing to base his career
on a new idea may not have been smart, but Duke did take this chance and in turn became one of the
most famous musicians in America. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Although he had many friends he never really told them everything about himself. He would often
guard his privacy probably because he had so little of it. When he was alone though, he would
almost always be arranging the next tune for the band to play, and was always thinking or preparing
something for the band to do in the next performance. Duke attracted some of the greatest musicians
to join his band.
Because of this it has been said that many of Duke's pieces are almost impossible to exactly
duplicate without the personal style of the original musicians. One of the strange things that was
known about Duke was that his school music teacher, Mrs. Clinkscales, who played the piano, was
always the inspiration for him to just sit down and start tinkering around with a few notes that
usually became big hits. In his band the two, probably most famous musicians were the trumpeter
Whetsol and the saxophonist Hodges. As the band became more and more popular, saxophonist
Hodges became the highest paid performer in the United States.
The 1920's became known as "the Jazz Age" because jazz had hit its first great burst of
popularity. At that time Duke then added a young drummer named
Sonny Greer. A few years after Greer was hired, Duke's band hit a very
rough

Duke Ellington's Legacy
Duke Ellington was a famous African American musician. He was a very important figure in African
American history. In the following we will be talking about his life. Talking about what Duke
Ellington accomplished. Finally will be his legacy. I hope by the end of this you will see Duke
Ellington like how I see him a legend in African American history. Duke Ellington was born on
April 29, 1899 to James and Daisy Ellington in Washington D.C. When he was seven is when he
began to study how to play the piano. He worked at Soda Jerk at a young age that inspired him to
write his first song "Soda Fountain Rag'' when he was 15. He went to Strongman High School but
when he graduated, he declined a scholarship to Pratt Institute so he could focus on

Who is Duke Ellington?
Duke Ellington was born on April 29, 1899 and died on May 24, 1974.
He was born in Washington D.C but later on he moved to New York City.
He was an American composer, pianist, and bandleader. He had that career for 50 years. He was
known as one of the greatest composers.
He had more than two thousand songs that where a hit at that time. He began to play the piano as a
child his mom played that piano as well.
She over saw his education. Duke played professional at age 17. When he moved to New York at the
year he made his own band. Ellington was more interested in baseball, but he took piano lessons
instead. In
1914 he wrote his first composition, ''Soda Fountain Rag'', he created by ear because he still didn't
know how to read and write music. His generations were orchestral jazz, swing, and big band. The
instrument he played was the piano. He started on 1914 and ended at 1974.
Ellington melded some of the his group members and they were one of the best players in jazz. He
gained a national profile through his
Orchestra appearances at the cotton club. Ellington recorded songs written by his bandsmen. His
reputation increased after he died and he got awarded in 1999. In jazz he was a giant among giants.
When
Ellington made the decision to leave Washington D.C he moved to
Harlem and he became one of the figures of the Harlem Renaissance.
He made eight records in 1924. Ellington had to increase from a six to eleven piece group to meet
the requirement of the audition. Ellington

It Don T Mean A Thing Analysis
Duke Ellington composed thousands of pieces throughout his career. Ellington's music made him
stand out and allowed his listeners to have many experiences they had never had before. One of his
most popular songs was "It Don't Mean a Thing, if It Ain't Got That Swing". Duke Ellington's song,
"It Don't Mean a Thing," was written in the summer of 1931. The piece was released on February 2,
1932, on the Brunswick Record label. Ellington hired vocalist, Ivie Anderson, to sing the piece and
appear on the Ellington record. A number of Ellington's hits were sung by Ivie Anderson, but "It
Don't Mean a Thing," broadened both of the artist's' fame. This piece proved many of Ellington's
hidden talents. For instance, "this song lifted Ellington out of the category of simply 'bandleader' to
composer" (). "It Don't Mean a Thing," is one of Duke Ellington's best–known pieces. As soon as
the song began, the beat ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
It's quite hard not to sing a long or at least tap your foot to the beat. Jazz is a time period where
"Swing" was about getting up and moving your body; as hard as it is not to get up and move with
this piece, Ellington's intentions were satisfied. Duke Ellington really strives to reach a peak of
happiness through this piece. With the repetitive chorus and the song being as catchy as it is, it is
rather hard not to get the words stuck in your head. While the music is mostly upbeat and exciting, it
is also relaxing. "It Don't Mean a Thing," brings a sense of harmony to the listener.
Overall, it is understandable why, "It Don't Mean a Thing," is as popular as it is. Duke Ellington's
take on jazz was really meant for his audience to enjoy themselves; Ellington clearly portrays that
through, "It Don't Mean a Thing". Duke Ellington is a very charismatic composer, and that is shown
through this piece. Music should make you feel good, and "It Don't Mean a Thing," definitely

Duke Ellington Research Paper
Duke Ellington was an American composer, and a bandleader who had composed thousands of
scores over his 50 year career.Duke Ellington was born on April 29, 1899, in Washington, D.C. He
was a major figure in the history of jazz music, Ellington career spanned more than half of the time
of his composed thousands of songs for the stage, screen, and songbook. Ellington made one of the
most distinctive ensemble sounds in the western music and had continued to play what he called
American music.
Duke Ellington was raised by his two talented musical parents in his middle–class neighborhood in
Washington DC. Duke was seven when he started playing the piano and earned his nickname
"Duke" for him being a gentlemen and his gentlemanly ways. At the age ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Duke Ellington joined his wife and son in the late 20s in New York City. but afterwards the couple
soon made the separation permanently. Due to Jet Magazines, Duke ex–wife was homesick to go
back to Washington and she had to returned but she died in 1967. In 1928, Duke had become the
companion of Mildred Dixon, who had travelled with Ellington, had managed Tempo Music, had
inspired songs at the start of his career and had raised his son Mercer. in 1938 he had left his family
and had moved in with Cotton Club employee Beatrice "Evie" Ellis. The relationship with Ellis,
though it was rough, Ellington continued to meet Fernanda de Castro Monte in the early 1960s.
Duke also supported both women for the rest his

Duke Ellington: African American Music
Renowned jazz musician, Duke Ellington, liked to refer to his music as, "American Music". During
the 50+ years he spent playing music, Ellington composed over 3000 songs and performed over 20,
000 concerts (Biography). Ellington paved the way socially and musically, for future generations of
jazz performers. He is remembered for his contributions to the African American community and
their daily struggles and triumphs, as he portrayed in his music.
Born Edward Kennedy Ellington, Duke's musical career started at an early age, with his mother
teaching him to play the piano. By the age of seventeen, he was playing jazz music professionally.
In 1923, Duke moved from his hometown of Washington DC and transitioned to a new life in New
York. It was in New York, that he formed his first band, known as the Washingtonians. After gaining
a strong Harlem fanbase, Ellington and his band began touring (Cunningham et al, 809). Ellington
believed that rather than building his band around certain instruments, it was better to build on an ...
Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
One of his most famous compositions, "Black, Brown and Beige" highlights the political and social
struggles and triumphs of the African American culture in America. Ellington played, "Black,
Brown and Beige" for the first time in front of an audience at Carnegie Hall. The artistical
expression of this piece, received highly controversial reviews. This piece begins with a song called,
"Work Song" the tone of this movement is meant to represent the early struggles slaves endured in
America. The second piece is meant to represent the triumphs of the African American culture. The
third movement, is entitled "Light" and is meant to establish an identity for the African American in
America. Lastly, the final piece, "Come Sunday" refers to the role of Christianity in the African
Americans while assimilating into this new culture

Edward Kennedy Ellington's 'Soda Fountain Rag'
Edward Kennedy Ellington (known as "Duke Ellington") was a famous American pianist and
bandleader of an jazz orchestra. He was a major figure in the Jazz industry which he composed an
array of songs for both onstage, screen, and song albums for more than half a century.
One of the most exclusive tones in Western music to what is called "American Jazz". His music
career started when he was just 7 years old where he began to study on how to play the piano and
then earned his unique nickname "Duke" for his manly like ways. His first composition, "Soda
Fountain Rag" while he worked as a Soda Jerk in a local store. Ellington dropped out of Highschool
at that time but was passionate enough to pursue his career in ragtime. Despite that, Ellington
followed his passion into ragtime and already began playing at the age of 17, his first ever
professional band was the "Washingtonians' . Ellington thought that jazz was old and boring
thinking that it might not make people to the point that jazz is outdated and not exciting as it was.
Ellington seeked many famous musicians with very distinct playing styles such as Bubber Miley
who had a ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Still remaining as one of the top most influential jazz artist if it wasn't for all the American Jazz
which was widely reviewed as one of the African American characteristics around that time. He
gave Jazz its own Musical vibe in the first time. Ellington was famously remembered for many
different songs that he composed over the course of his life. One of his amazing parts about Duke
Ellington in fact that he is creative most of the time on the road more than off stage because he
could look upon the blue sky or into the shadowy night while composing one of his great songs.
During that time he wrote his famous piece "Mood Indigo" while on a road trip at night for his tour
across

Research Paper On Harlem Renaissance
Harlem renaissance was an explosion of culture, art, and music that primarily took place in urban
areas in the Northeast and Midwest of the united states.in the 1920's and 1930's. There were many
famous dancers, musicians, poets and composers that had a great impact on the Harlem
Renaissance. Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong Duke Ellington was one of many famous harlem
renaissance celebrities. He was a very famous African american songwriter and musician. Born in
washington dc in 1899, he was a very famous songwriter and musician for his time. Duke performed
in his Jazz band called The washingtonians that primarily in the cotton club and located in new york.
Dukes music was not just liked from the black community but also the white, causing a growing in
popularity. Duke is most known for his famous pieces "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That
Swing)" and "Take the A Train." Duke had been given many honoraries and rewards such as 16
honorary doctorates, the president's gold medal, the medal of freedom, the french legion of honor, a
star on the hollywood walk of fame, ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Louis Armstrong is most famously known Playing jazz music and probably the most recognizable
jazz player of all time. After firing his stepfather's gun into the air to celebrate new year's eve, he
was arrested shortly after. At age 11 Louis was sent to the Colored Waif's Home for Boys; there he
learned to play the cornet and found his love for music. By 1922 he had moved to chicago to record
his first solo in 1923, the "Chimes Blues". Armstrong played in recording groups, particular, the hot
five and hot seven. The most popular songs Porgy and Bess, and What a Wonderful World. Louis
Armstrong also received awards such as Recieved a star at the hollywood hall of fame.3.32. Many
consider Armstrong to be a

Who Is Duke Ellington?
One of the biggest names in jazz, even 118 years after his birth. Edward "Duke" Ellington was born
on April 29 1899 in Washington D.C. (PBS.org). He was an only child to his mother and father
(PBS.org). His mother started teaching him piano at age 7 (Biography.com), and his gentlemanly
way of dress and action earned him the nickname Duke from his friends (Biography.com). His first
job was at 15 as a local soda jerk, and at that job he wrote his first song, called Soda Fountain Rag.
He was playing piano professionally at age 17 (PBS.org). Although he was offered a scholarship to
Pratt Institute, he declined (Biography.com). He married Edna Thompson, his high school
sweetheart, soon after their marriage she gave birth to Mercer Ellington,

Duke Ellington: An American Legacy Essays
Duke Ellington: An American Legacy      Where would music be
had it not been for the men that stepped before him. The Motzarts and Beethovens, who wrote the
music that today is known as the classics. These men were naturals in their own right, but these
people wrote their music in the 17th and 18th century. Many people don't realize all of the changes
that music had to go through between that period of music and the present day. One such musician
stands alone at the top as one of the movers and innovators of the 20th century. He is Duke
Ellington. Along with his band, he alone influenced millions of people both around the world and at
home. He gave American music its own sound for the first time. Winton Marsalis ... Show more
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He was on his way, or was he? In 1923 he experienced failure due to financial instability(330). Most
people would have given up by now but not the Duke. He kept on looking for work. His relentless
perseverance payed off. In 1924 Elmer Snowden asked Duke Ellington to join his band and he
accepted without question(Collier,45). So Duke moved north to New York and joined the
Washingtonians(46). Elmer Snowden was so impressed by his natural ability, that in 1927 he handed
his band over to Ellington(Collier,72). It was the turning point in Ellingtons life. He was now the
leader of a headlining bank at the Cotton Club. "The Cotton Club––smack dab in the middle
of Harlem–but Black people couldn't go there. It was for whites only," says Joe
Louis(Gales,1995). Imagine the prestige of being a Black in the midst of White people. Ellington
was finally rubbing shoulders the upper class. However he was not allowed to share his talent with
his own kind. His inspiration for all his wonderful compositions never were heard by them. It's like
writing a love song for someone and not being allowed to share it. His feelings and ideas were never
expressed to the people that meant the most to him, his people(Johnson,59). At the time his legacy
was only known by the whites who went to see him perform. It wasn't until later when Blacks began
to hear the Duke's music for the first time.

American Jazz Legend Duke Ellington Summary

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American Jazz Legend Duke Ellington Summary