The Duke Ellington Poets performed at the Duke Ellington monument located at 110th and 5th Ave to celebrate his birthday. The concert featured professional and student musicians, dancers and other student groups. It ended with a parade in Central Park led by Duke Ellington's granddaughter, Mercedes Ellington.
Students at PS4 celebrated his birthday by sharing poems, stories, biographies, artwork and music about our school's namesake. Were also well entertained by the Jackie Wilson Quartet sponsored by the Jazz Foundation of America!
Duke Ellington was born Edward Kennedy Ellington on April 29, 1899 in Washington DC. He got the name "Duke" from his childhood friends because of his elegant manners and the way he dressed. He has composed more music than anyone else in the 20th century! Each year, on this day, we celebrate "The Duke".
