Mingus Big Band Plans Tribute to Duke Ellington

By I Apr. 11, 2003 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.

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