Duke Ellington and New York City at the Museum of the City of New York

Thursday, May 29 at 6:30 p.m.

Jazz Scholar Edward Green Reflects on the Life of Legendary Composer, Pianist, and Bandleader Duke Ellington on the 40th Anniversary of the Musician’s Death

The Museum of the City of New York presents Duke Ellington and New York City, an exploration of the work of Duke Ellington, the originator of big-band jazz, on Thursday, May 29.

Admission is free for Museum members; $12 students/seniors, $16 general public.

Museum of the City of New York
1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd Street

Duke Ellington’s music is intimately related to the history, daily life, and, of course, nightlife of New York. In a presentation by noted jazz scholar Edward Green, these interconnections surface in surprising visual images and classic recordings like “Harlem Airshaft,” “The Mooche” (a Cotton Club favorite), and the band’s signature piece, “Take the A Train,” by Billy Strayhorn. Philosopher Eli Siegel, Ellington’s contemporary and fellow New Yorker, could easily have been describing the other man’s music when he said: “In reality opposites are one; art shows this.” With swinging tempos, depth of feeling, and high style, Ellington’s music conveys the drama of contrasts that defines the rhythm of life New York City.

About the Museum of the City of New York

Founded in 1923 as a private, nonprofit corporation, the Museum of the City of New York celebrates and interprets the city, educating the public about its distinctive character, especially its heritage of diversity, opportunity, and perpetual transformation. The Museum connects the past, present, and future of New York City, and serves the people of the city as well as visitors from around the world through exhibitions, school and public programs, publications, and collections. Visit www.mcny.org to learn more.