Duke Ellington: The Piano Prince and His Orchestra

This book tells the story of Duke Ellington, a legendary jazz musician, from his initial disinterest in the piano to becoming one of the greatest composers of the twentieth century. As a young boy, Ellington thought the piano had an 'umpy-dump' sound, but his perception changed when he encountered ragtime music. Inspired, he began composing his own melodies, eventually forming a band called The Washingtonians. The band, later known as Duke Ellington and His Orchestra, rose to fame performing in Harlem's upscale venues like The Cotton Club. This biography highlights Duke Ellington's journey to becoming the king of the keys and a jazz pioneer, earning accolades such as a Caldecott Honor and Coretta Scott King Award Honor.