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Musicians & Singers
Duke Ellington
1899–1974
One of the greatest composers in jazz history who led his orchestra for over 50 years.
📖Biography
Edward Kennedy 'Duke' Ellington was an American composer, pianist, and leader of a jazz orchestra, which he led from 1923 until his death. He composed thousands of scores and is considered one of the most important figures in music history.
Key Achievements
1
Composed over 1,000 pieces of music
2
Led his orchestra for over 50 years
3
Won 13 Grammy Awards
4
Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Legacy & Impact
Ellington elevated jazz to an art form on par with classical music and used his music to address racial themes with sophistication and power.