Duke playing piano

Duke is Courtney's best friend in Jazzdaze. They enjoy playing football and walking the neighbourhood together after school.

Edward 'Duke' Ellington was a brilliant piano player, band leader and composer. In 1923, he got to lead a jazz band called The Washingtonians.

The band became known for its unusual 'jungle' sound. This featured a style of trumpet playing using a mute.

Duke wrote music to feature this great new sound.

The band became very popular, playing at the famous Cotton Club. Duke put together a fantastic jazz orchestra, and developed lots of new musical ideas to challenge his musicians and delight audiences.

Over time, the most famous jazz musicians worked with Duke.

Duke Ellington poster image courtesy of AllPosters.com

Discover more about Duke Ellington at www.redhotjazz.com/duke.html