Duke Ellington
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Duke Ellington artist page: interviews, features and/or performances archived at NPR Music
Concerts
December 14, 2006 A varied history of American choral music from colonial anthems to the music of Leonard Bernstein.
Interviews & Profiles
January 5, 2011 In 1940, two amateurs made what would become a Grammy-winning recording -- 40 years later.
June 29, 2010 Hear the celebrated soprano talk about her first new solo record in more than 10 years.
November 26, 2008 The bandleader's compositions present an indelible contribution to American music's legacy.
November 19, 2008 The legendary bandleader and composer produced more than a thousand lasting works.
November 28, 2007 Duke Ellington's instrument was his orchestra, a hand-picked group of the best musicians available.
November 21, 2007 Duke Ellington led an institution which even the greatest musicians aspired to be part of.
November 14, 2007 Decade after decade, Ellington's ever-talented orchestra rode incredible waves of creativity.
November 7, 2007 A bright yet unremarkable teenage boy became the leader of the world's most popular big band.
April 29, 2005 A tribute to late composer and bandleader Duke Ellington on the anniversary of his 106th birthday.
Discover Songs
August 1, 2001 Ellington hooked up with the John Coltrane Quartet to record an album to highlight his own songs.
August 1, 2001 The album includes the best from the most important composer in the history of jazz.
August 1, 2001 Based on the Bard's plays and sonnets, the album brings Lady Macbeth to life as a ragtime melody.
News
April 29, 2010 On his birthday anniversary, here are a few features from the NPR archives about The Maestro.
April 27, 2007 A rememberance of Duke Ellington, who would have been 108 on Sunday, with a bit of his music.
Reviews
August 1, 2001 Ellington hooked up with the John Coltrane Quartet to record an album to highlight his own songs.
August 1, 2001 The album includes the best from the most important composer in the history of jazz.
August 1, 2001 Based on the Bard's plays and sonnets, the album brings Lady Macbeth to life as a ragtime melody.
More Stories
December 25, 2012 The flow of classical Christmas albums has slowed, triggering a longing for past recordings.
Partner Content from WBGO
April 12, 2011 Hear five of The Maestro's finest sidemen, all of whom he targeted for their strengths.
February 6, 2007 Composer Billy Strayhorn's autobiographical classic attracts a new documentary and a CD.
Partner Content from WFIU
May 23, 2013 After writing partner Billy Strayhorn died, the great composer experienced a burst of productivity.
Partner Content from WFIU
February 21, 2013 Composers such as Duke Ellington have captured black history in long-form works. Hear five examples.
June 19, 2012 For Juneteenth, today's jazz luminaries reflect on recordings about African-American emancipation.
Partner Content from WFIU
October 27, 2011 Dig the grave, gone sounds of some wickedly good music, including a brass-filled "Thriller."
Partner Content from WFIU
September 27, 2011 The banning of alcohol and the subsequent rise of speakeasies played a role in jazz's evolution.
August 23, 2011 The super-producer plays cuts from a new deluxe edition of the massively successful film soundtrack.
Partner Content from WFIU
June 30, 2011 As America's birthday approaches, here are five tasty offerings for your Fourth of July celebration.
June 8, 2011 Inspired by their own album of duets, we asked the jazzmen to name their favorite pairings.
Partner Content from WESA
August 10, 2010 Wouldn't literacy education be more fun through jazz? Hear an A-through-E guide and tell us more.
April 27, 2010 Hear five examples of the way the instrument has blended seamlessly into decades of jazz.
Partner Content from WBGO
February 23, 2009 Hear the groundbreaking work of five bassists who helped shape the sounds of classic jazz.
June 23, 2008 The Piano Jazz host offers the Top 5 songs and recordings she's listening to right now.
Partner Content from WESA
April 29, 2008 Ellington's mark can be found everywhere on jazz, both past and present.
Partner Content from WESA
February 13, 2008 Instead of candies and cards, impress your sweetheart with some music inspired by love.
November 6, 2000 Ellington's unique instrumentation on this standard is an example of his subtle sophistication.
June 12, 2000 "Take the 'A' Train" started the lasting collaboration between Billy Strayhorn and Duke Ellington.
Partner Content from WBGO
September 2, 2008 In the world of jazz, September sessions have produced some special recordings.
