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"EE HAS EDUCATED AN ENTIRE COMMUNITY WITH STUDENT AND ADULT ENSEMBLES PLAYING THE CHARTS, STUDENTS AND FACULTY MEMBERS USING THE JAZZ INFORMATION IN OUR AMERICAN STUDIES COURSES, AND IPSWICH AUDIENCES ENJOYING THE MUSIC AND BEGINNING TO UNDERSTAND THE GENIUS OF DUKE ELLINGTON."
-GERALD DOLAN, BAND DIRECTOR, IPSWICH, MA
Beyond playing the charts, a comprehensive study of Ellington enhances the performance of this music. This includes researching the history, personalities, and various cultures embodied in Ellington's music. Here are some suggestions:
- Listen, listen, listen – there is no substitute for listening to original recordings. This includes the Duke Ellington Orchestra (from all eras), as well as recordings by many other musicians who preceded him and were playing or composing at the same time. Listen to James P. Johnson, Louis Armstrong, Maurice Ravel, Igor Stravinsky, among others to further enhance your studies.
- Transcribe solos; note voicings, grooves, swing, orchestrations, etc.
- Student Essay Contest: Encourage your students to write a short essay about their personal experience with Duke Ellington.
- Use the list of recommended recordings, videos, and books on the Duke Ellington Leadsheet for a good introduction to Ellington's musical world and life.
- Assign a different Ellington Orchestra member (Johnny Hodges, Cootie Williams, etc.) to each of your students to study - research recordings, transcribe solos, identify the characteristics that made the musician unique, etc. Students should be encouraged to share what they have learned with each other.
- The Jazz for Young People Curriculum includes chapters on Duke Ellington, Billy Strayhorn, Big Band, and Swing with musical examples, listening guides, and expanded classroom suggestions. Use the Curriculum to supplement your band's exploration of jazz.
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Jazz at Lincoln Center
Essentially Ellington
33 West 60th Street
New York, NY 10023
Email: ee@jalc.org
Phone: (212) 258-9812
Fax: (212) 258-9900
For general inquiries about Jazz at Lincoln Center, please click here.
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