Mingus Big Band Plans Tribute to Duke Ellington

  I  

Duke Ellington is recognized as an unparalleled American musical genius who was a composer, bandleader and pianist. The impact of the mastery of Duke Ellington on other composers and musicians has rarely been examined. This concert seeks to change that as it will illustrate the impact of Duke Ellington on another major 20th Century American composer and musician, Charles Mingus.

The compositions which Charles Mingus wrote in tribute to Duke Ellington will be brought together into one dynamic concert. The Mingus Big Band will perform “Duke Ellington Sound of Love”, “Open Letter to Duke” and “Alive and Living in Dukeland”, among others. Selected Ellington music will be presented. The Duke Ellington Society is sponsoring this concert that will take place on Saturday, April 26 at 8 p.m. in Saint Peter’s Church, Lexington Avenue at 54th Street. Donation is $25 each at the door or reservations in advance, call (212) 675–7477.



  • Sonny_Rollins_by_Michael_Jackson_copy.jpg

    Onstage, Rollins would move about restlessly, thrusting his tenor sax in the air as he blew.

    Sonny Rollins Passes Away at 95

    Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…

  • NikBaertschs_RONIN_by_Christian_Senti.jpg

    “We thought it’s important that Ronin has a new statement,” said Nik Bärtsch of his band’s latest album, Spin. “The sound is differently produced, so it reflects more of who we are.”

  • The_Bad_Plus_by_Evelyn_Freja_copy1.jpg

    ​Dave King (left) and Reid Anderson offer insights into why The Bad Plus’ chemistry was cool, the accomplishments many and its longevity so fruitful.

  • Davis_Miles_by_Jack_Vartoogian_lo_res_copy.jpg

    How best to mark Miles Davis’ centennial? By allowing the stories to flow, and cross-discussions to happen.

  • Ava_Preston_Courtesy_Ava_Preston.jpg

    Ava Preston, a 12-time DownBeat Student Music Award winner, is currently pursuing her master’s degree in jazz voice at Juilliard.