The Duke Ellington Orchestra came to Anchorage and performed their signature music this Saturday in the Atwood Concert Hall. The large orchestra consisted of five saxophonists (one alto, three tenor and one baritone) who each played clarinet as well with one who also played the flute. In addition there were three trombonists, four trumpet players, a drummer, a bassist and the orchestra leader, who played piano.
This was Anchorage’s night to hear orchestra instruments played with attitude as these talented musicians played with equal expertise but added their own flare to the many solos featured throughout the evening. The night started with A Train and as each new piece started, the audience responded with applause at the many easily recognizable tunes. Several of the Duke’s compositions were played, including Perdido, Lush Life, Cotton Club Stone, Don’t Get Around Much Anymore, and Satin Doll. The highlight of the concert was Ellington’s famous Mood Indigo, with three key soloists playing clarinet, trumpet and tenor saxophone so quietly as to make the audience almost lean forward to hear the haunting melody.
One of the hardest working members of the orchestra, the bassist (and only female), played through every song of the evening while many of her fellow members were able to rest as other instruments took over during a piece. Besides keeping the beat throughout the night, she was also the member the orchestra leader referred to as "our babysitter" and proved it as she took on the task of frequently reminding him which piece they were playing next in the set.
Ellington was famous for saying, “you’ve got to find some way of saying it without saying it.” His orchestra proved his words true throughout the night, saying volumes to an audience that was swaying in their seats to the dance hall numbers, cheering for their favorites and being reminded of good times and sweet love through music. Even Mayor Dan Sullivan was so moved that he issued a proclamation, welcoming the orchestra to Anchorage that evening.
Many bands in recent years can claim to have an American sound, but Ellington’s orchestra was the originator. Edward Kennedy (Duke) Ellington was the first to brand and give it a unique style, even preferring to call what he wrote “American Music,” as opposed to jazz.
He led his orchestra for 50 years and after his death, first his son and then his grandson kept it going. Today his orchestra is still keeping his music alive and fresh for newer generations.
As Ellington once said, “The memory of things gone is important to a jazz musician.” While Ellington himself may be gone, his music is more than a memory. It’s a feel good slice of Americana unlike any other.
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