Musician of the Month - Duke Ellington

Duke Ellington

(1899-1974)

September's 'Musician of the Month' is Duke Ellington. He was a famous pianist and jazz orchestra leader. 

Click on 'read more' to find out more about him and listen to some of his music.

Duke Ellington was an American pianist, composer and jazz orchestra leader. He was famous for developing big-band jazz, a style of music that uses a large ensemble of instruments to play jazz music. Duke Ellington toured the U.S.A. and other parts of the world sharing his love of jazz music. 

Did you know...?

• His real name was Edward.
• He performed with other famous musicians, such as Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong.

Have a listen to the YouTube clips below and comment on them at the bottom. Do you like Duke Ellington's music? Tell us what you think.

Duke Ellington playing 'Solitude'

Duke Ellington leading his big band playing 'Take the A train'