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New page: '''Duke Ellington''' was a great American bandleader and pianist, not only a towering figure in Jazz, but often regarded as one the great composers of the 20th century. He began h...
'''Duke Ellington''' was a great American bandleader and pianist, not only a towering figure in [[Jazz]], but often regarded as one the great composers of the [[20th century]].
He began his career in [[New York City]], with a residency at the [[Cotton Club]] from 1927 during which he developed the ideas of [[Don Redman]] and [[Fletcher Henderson]] and became instrumental in developing the [[Big Band]] sound that was to dominate the 1930s.
The contributions of lead trumpeter [[Bubber Miley]] helped define his 'jungle' sound in which the trumpet was made to 'speak' through skilful use of the mute, a style continued by Miley's successor [[Cootie Williams]].
Later, Ellington's band absorbed the influence of the more swinging [[Count Basie]] band, whilst remaining true to his original conception of advanced arrangements. His masterpieces were arguably recorded around the time of [[World War Two]].
Ellington continued recording up until his death in 1974, still producing innovative music into his old age.
He began his career in [[New York City]], with a residency at the [[Cotton Club]] from 1927 during which he developed the ideas of [[Don Redman]] and [[Fletcher Henderson]] and became instrumental in developing the [[Big Band]] sound that was to dominate the 1930s.
The contributions of lead trumpeter [[Bubber Miley]] helped define his 'jungle' sound in which the trumpet was made to 'speak' through skilful use of the mute, a style continued by Miley's successor [[Cootie Williams]].
Later, Ellington's band absorbed the influence of the more swinging [[Count Basie]] band, whilst remaining true to his original conception of advanced arrangements. His masterpieces were arguably recorded around the time of [[World War Two]].
Ellington continued recording up until his death in 1974, still producing innovative music into his old age.