Jason Moran + NEC Jazz Orchestra: My Heart Sings - Ellington at 125

Jason Moran and the NEC Jazz Orchestra, directed by Ken Schaphorst, present a tribute to Duke Ellington in celebration of Ellington's 125th birthday.

Born Edward Kennedy Ellington 125 years ago this April, Ellington looms large as one of the most important composers, bandleaders, and pianists of the 20 th century. For over 50 years, Ellington’s bands pioneered their musical and cultural space, existing between and beyond social conceptions of a dance band, symphonic orchestra, entertainment, and experimentalism. He famously wrote not for the instruments of his ensemble but for the unique personalities of his band members – so much so, that it is impossible to separate the sound of his orchestra from the personalities for whom (Johnny Hodges, Cootie Williams, and Jimmy Blanton to name a few) and with (Billy Strayhorn) he wrote. From being nicknamed “Duke” by childhood friends for his elegant demeanor, his tenure at Harlem’s Cotton Club in the 1920’s, his residency at Carnegie Hall where he premiered an extended work each season, to his global tours and eventual status as a cultural icon, Ellington embodied Black sophistication in his life and music. His dedication, courage, and audacious music cast a shadow under which we are all fortunate to exist today.
- Program Notes by Kris Monson, DMA ’25

This is an in-person event with a private stream available to the NEC community here: https://necmusic.edu/live