Duke Ellington & His Orchestra

The Profile

Led by Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington, Duke Ellington & His Orchestra was one of the most influential jazz big bands of the 20th century, active from the 1920s until 1974. Renowned for sophisticated arrangements, star soloists, and landmark suites, the ensemble bridged swing, blues, gospel, and orchestral jazz while shaping the sound of American music.

A centerpiece of jazz history, the orchestra helped define big band swing; Ellington’s partnership with Billy Strayhorn yielded signature works including Take the 'A' Train. The 1956 Newport performance reignited Ellington’s career. Ellington received a Pulitzer Prize Special Citation in 1999.

Five glowing reviews chart Ellington’s sacred jazz vision, the epochal 1956 Newport comeback with Gonsalves’s marathon solo, his refined piano-trio statement, and intimate dialog with John Coltrane. Three Suites highlights Ellington/Strayhorn’s playful turn with Tchaikovsky and Grieg. The set paints the Duke as composer, bandleader, and pianist—bridging gospel, swing, and long-form orchestral jazz.