Duke ellington biography summary rubric

“Recently, a friend asked me why I thought American Jazz was so much the vogue in other countries.

I said, I thought the reason was that jazz means freedom and that today, freedom is the big word around the world. Well, if jazz means freedom, then jazz means peace because peace can come to mankind only when man is free.” – Duke Ellington

Snapshot Biography

In the sultry nights of Harlem amongst the bustling avenues of New York City, the legend of Duke Ellington as a musician was born.

In this activity, students have the opportunity to research Duke Ellington, his life, his accomplishments, and other aspects.

In this activity, students have the opportunity to research Duke Ellington, his life, his accomplishments, and other aspects.

Duke Ellington was born in Washington D.C., and from an early age he loved music.

Among Ellington's contributions was his role in bringing the worlds of jazz and orchestral music together and transcending the boundaries of inherited genres.

You will find an original biography about the great Duke Ellington and two pages of questions.

Applicants are evaluated as individuals and weighed against the needs of the school's various arts programs.

“Duke was the quintessence of soul. His music described life in the black community, caught the spirit of the ghetto, the humor and pathos of life,” wrote researcher and NAACP leader Gloster B. Current.

Born in Washington D.C.

in 1899, Edward Ellington became “Duke” in his early years, when, as a youngster, he possessed a regal air and an elegance that belied his tender years. This noble manner and penchant for sartorial splendor earned him the moniker &