Guest Lecture: Duke Ellington: Revolutionary Genius

April 7, 2024
12 - 1:30pm EDT
Centre Street Performance Studio Centre Street Performance Studio
Peabody Institute
This event is free

Who can attend?

  • General public
  • Faculty
  • Staff
  • Students

Description

No one led a life, led a band, or made music like Duke Ellington.  He was one of a kind—beyond category.  Based on his acclaimed biography, John Hasse introduces the moving and inspiring story of Duke Ellington, who overcame racial, social, and musical obstacles to become one of the 20th century's greatest musicians.  You'll learn about his boyhood in Washington, DC, his breakthrough at Harlem's Cotton Club, the way he personalized his compositions for the individual gifts of his players, and his sharp disappointment about being rejected for a Pulitzer Prize.  You'll learn how Ellington used his music to champion social justice and racial respect.  You'll hear excerpts from his famous recordings such as Mood Indigo and Take the "A" Train and his Sacred Concerts. Illustrated with photos and compelling video examples.

This lecture will be livestreamed.

Who can attend?

  • General public
  • Faculty
  • Staff
  • Students