See the Duke Ellington Orchestra at AMT, August 13!
Duke Ellington remains one of the most influential figures in jazz even years after his passing in 1974. He always called his music “American Music” rather than jazz, but many in the industry know him as a jazz icon.
The Duke Ellington Orchestra formed in the late 1920s. Ellington remained at the helm as bandleader from 1923 until his death – resulting in a career lasting over 50 years.
He composed over 3,000 songs during his lifetime, including mass favorites like “It Don’t Mean a Thing if It Ain’t Got That Swing” and “Sophisticated Lady”.
The Duke Ellington Orchestra continues to travel worldwide performing these and several of Ellington’s celebrated classics.
Don’t miss your chance to see them when they make a stop in Lancaster! The band will hit the American Music Theatre stage on Sunday, August 13 at 3:00 p.m. for an unforgettable show!
Awards
With a career spanning over 50 years, it’s no surprise that Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington has an impressive list of accolades and awards. From 1959 to 2000, Ellington won 12 Grammy Awards – three of which were awarded posthumously.
In the 1960s, Ellington was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to the recording industry. He achieved a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award as well. In 1966, Ellington received the Presidential Gold Medal from President Johnson. A few years later, President Nixon granted him the highest civilian award in the US – the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
In 1973, France awarded him its highest civilian award: Legion of Honor.
Ellington received several collegiate honors throughout his life. Some of which include:
- An honorary degree from Milton College in 1964
- An honorary Doctor of Music Degree from Yale University in 1967
- An honorary PhD from the Berklee College of Music in 1971
- An honorary Doctor of Music from Howard University in 1971
- An honorary degree in Music from Columbia University in 1973
Ellington also received a posthumous Special Pulitzer Prize in 1999 for his lifetime contributions to both music and culture.
See You at the Show!
Revisit, remember, and celebrate a lifetime of music with the Duke Ellington Orchestra on August 13 at 3:00 p.m.
Click here to purchase tickets!