Jazz with an aristocratic feeling
- Source: Global Times
- [10:49 May 28 2010]
- Comments
Duke Ellington. Photo: IC
By Nick Muzyczka
Duke Ellington's pivotal role in the development of jazz is undeniable. During his 50-year career, Ellington wrote more than 2,000 pieces of music and was central to changing perceptions of jazz.
His interest in elaborate orchestrations that took elements from the more rigorous compositional techniques of Western music led to seminal early shows at Carnegie Hall in New York in the 1940s.
Now, the Duke Ellington Orchestra will bring the jazz genius to life in Shanghai.
Ellington synthesized many of the features of American music - ragtime, Tin Pan Alley, the blues, minstrel - creating a rich yet homogenous style. Although technically intricate, his music has a straightforward focus that generates a narrative quality.
His nickname "Duke" was adopted at an early age, reflecting the young man's aristocratic tendencies. His formative years coincided with a period in American history when black culture was beginning to attract increasing attention.
Some of Ellington's most famous works include tunes like "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)" and "Sophisticated Lady" and longer suites like "Black, Brown, and Beige" and "The Liberian Suite."
One of the idiosyncrasies of Ellington's compositions is that he wrote parts for specific players within his band.
Tunes such as "Jeep's Blues" for Johnny Hodges, and "The Mooche" for Tricky Sam Nanton and Bubber Miley, are examples of pieces that exploited the specific skills of individuals.
The Duke Ellington Orchestra is the preeminent performer of the jazz legend's music and has been directed by three generations of the family.
Duke Ellington led his band until his death in 1974. His son Mercer Ellington, who had previously dealt with the band's administration for many years, took over the role until his own death in 1996. Paul Mercer Ellington, Duke's grandson, has now taken up the baton.
Date: Sunday, 7:30 pm
Venue: Shanghai Oriental Art Center 上海东方艺术中心
Address: 425 Dingxiang Road 丁香路425号
Tickets: 100 to 680 yuan
Call 6854-1234 for details
