Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington

Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington (April 29, 1989-May 24, 1974) was an American composer, pianist and jazz musician.   He was born in Washington D.C. and was based in New York City from the mid-1920’s.  He gained a national profile through his orchestra’s appearance at the Cotton Club in Harlem.  In 1968  the second of his three Sacred Concerts  was premiered at the  Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine.   Ellington died on May 24, 1974,  and his funeral was at held at the  Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine.

[Published Winter 2020]