1. EDWARD KENNEDY ELLINGTON (1899-1974)

2. CHILDHOOD Duke was born April 29, 1899 in Washington D.C. He grew up in a middle class family with a strong religious influence. His family encouraged his interest in art and music. He began piano at age 7. His first compositions were written by age 14.

3. CAREER Inspired by Ragtime performers. Began performing at age 17. Went to New York City in 1923. Bandleader at Harlem’s famous “Cotton Club” (1927-1932) His band toured Europe after World War II

4. MUSIC Most of his music was written for his own band. He wrote music to fit the band members’ talents. First composer to break the 3 minute limit for a recording. He played piano on many of his recordings.

5. AWARDS Grammy awards Spingarn Medal (NAACP) Honorary Music Degree from Yale University Medal of Freedom at age 70 Elected to the National Institute of Arts and Letters.

6. Duke Ellington composed and performed until he died in 1974 from lung cancer. http://www.notablebiographies.com