A Duke Named Ellington

With director Terry Carter in person

Part of Changing the Picture, sponsored by Time Warner Inc.

Dir. Terry Carter. 1988. 110 mins. Honoring what would have been Duke Ellington’s 118th birthday (he was born on April 29, 1899), director Terry Carter revisits his Emmy-nominated celebration of the great American composer and bandleader. The film spans half a century, blending previously undiscovered performance footage with reminiscences by the likes of Herbie Hancock, Charlie Mingus, Ben Webster, Louis Bellson, Clark Terry, and others. In rare interviews, the Duke himself recalls his early professional influences and experiences, and reveals his unique method of music-making. A Duke Named Ellington shows that not only was Ellington a protagonist in the historical development of American music, but that he was crucial in the elevation of jazz from the level of folklore to the realm of music that lives far beyond its time and place.

This event is sold out. Tickets: $15 (Free for members at the Film Lover and MoMI Kids Premium levels and above). Tickets may become available on a first-come, first-served basis through a standby line. Visit the Museum’s admission desk after 6:30 p.m. to secure a position in the standby line.



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