The Composer Who Made the Orchestra Swing
Edward Kennedy "Duke"
Ellington
When?
April 29 1899
May 24 1974, age 75
Where?
Washington, DC, US
Ellington was a
Modern
composer.
Ellington was one of the greatest jazz musicians ever. Leading his big band, he became a huge creator and developer of the big-band jazz style. But he faced many challenges along the way.
At that time, Black musicians were sometimes treated unfairly because of the color of their skin. Duke’s band was allowed to play onstage, but not allowed to enter through the front door or stay in the same hotels as white performers.
But Duke never gave up. He played in a benefit concert for the Scottsboro Boys, which was a group of Black teenagers who were in prison for a crime they didn’t commit. He refused to play for segregated audiences and put it in writing in his contract saying so.
Even when doors were closed to him, Duke helped open them—for himself and for future musicians.
Fun Facts
Both Maestros
It’s Good to Be the Queen
Over his lifetime, Duke Ellington performed for kings and queens and even appeared at the White House to play for the President of the United States!
Both Maestros
Proud as a Peacock
One of the ways Duke earned his nickname was to surround himself with fancy and luxurious things? One of those things was a peacock! It loved strutting around the apartment.
Both Maestros
Sir Duke
Duke Ellington’s full name was Edward Kennedy Ellington, but people called him "Duke" because he was so cool and stylish, like a royal duke.
