1. Duke Ellington 1899-1974

2. Facts He went to Armstrong Technical High School. His full name was Edward Kennedy Ellington. His fathers name was James Edward Ellington. His mothers name was Daisy Kennedy Ellington. His family descended from slaves.

3. Early Life Ellington was raised by two talented musician parents. At age 7, he began studying the piano. He began writing music at the age of 15.

4. Adult Life Ellington began performing at nightclubs in the 1920’s. One of them was named the Cotton Club. He wrote many songs such as, Soda Fountain Rag, Cotton Tail, and Ko-Ko. His most popular one being “Solitude”. He was also a composer.

5. Fame He is most known for his 12 Grammy awards (nine of the while he was living)and for being the originator of big-band jazz.

6. Sources www.biagraphy.com/people/duke-ellington-9286338 http://www.facts-about.org.uk/composers/facts-about-duke- ellington.htm http://www.facts-about.org.uk/composers/facts-about-duke- ellington.htm http://www.redhotjazz.com/duke.html