Duke Ellington

April 29th – Duke Ellington’s birthday.  In 2012, it has been 113 years since he was born.


Duke Ellington, a multitalented persona – a genius worldwide composer and musician.
Since earlier in life he fell in love with music, which he pursued having his own vision.
Ellington had gradually become a famous pianist as well as big band leader of all times.
Jazz, gospel, classical, blues, Christian liturgy had constituted his composition paradise. 
 
Throughout his life, Duke had possessed charisma, inspiration, motivation, passion.
Composing music, playing it with orchestra or band, he made a new discovery, invention.
He integrated genres developing his own style, which Ellington had personally construed.
Duke had defined or called his art “American Music” setting consistently its tone or mood.
 
Duke’s method of conducting orchestra was different from the surrounding professionals.
He utilized his sense of humor, flattery, charisma in a way that was quite unconventional.
His band became responsive and appreciative of Ellington’s approach and personality.
They valued his free creative spirit, dedication, versatility, kind heartedness and artistry.   
 
Composing music scores as soundtracks for motion pictures, musicals as well as short films
Expanded Ellington’s capacity to grow, create, evolve in an invention, innovation realms.
Duke had enhanced his capability creating more extended pieces of his music composition.
It had prepared him for ninety-forties to ninety-fifties upcoming changes, mindful transition.

Duke had collaborated with the masters including Williams, Fitzgerald, Hamilton, Procope.
Together they experimented, fully explored, enriched their professional spectrum or scope.
Duke had become a major leader, well known musician and composer in the jazz community.
He had succeeded contributing, promoting innovation, beauty of music and creative unity.    

In 2012, we are celebrating Ellington’s 113th birthday – a very special day for many of his fans.
Remembering Duke’s piano playing and music composition gift, we take at it a current glance.
The legacy of Sir Duke in jazz evolution still shines and lightens people’s lives, paths, fates.
His contribution to the world’s and nation’s music history and culture is vivid, never fades.
   
   
Copyright©2012 Mila Alper


* Фото из Интернета
  Photo is from the Internet