Duke Ellington (1899-1974) was born Edward Kennedy Ellington in Washington, DC. A world reknowned composer, conductor, and pianist, he began to play professionally at the age of 17. In 1923, he moved to New York City and organized a ten-piece band. Through the 1930's and 1940's he and his enlarged band appeared in theaters and nightclubs, on the radio, and in foreign tours. In 1943, he conducted the first of nine annual concerts at Carnegie Hall, in New York City. His compositions are known for their modified concerto form and central solo instrumental passages. Among his most famous songs are "Mood Indigo" (1931), "Sophisticated Lady" (1933), and "Solitude" (1934). His band's signature piece, "Take the 'A' Train," is still widely performed by many of today's top jazz ensembles. Brother Ellington is one of the most respected figures in the history of jazZ, and is credited with bringing the art form into concert halls and religious services. His autobiography, published in 1973, is entitled Music Is My Mistress.

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