The Intimate Duke Ellington 20 years old

Duke Ellington's fifty year career was full of accomplishments as a highly original pianist, arranger, prolific composer and leader of a timeless orchestra. On occasion he recorded with a small group from his orchestra or as a piano soloist, but Duke was rarely filmed in that capacity... with a few exceptions. On January 23, 1967, Ellington filmed two programs for Danish television. The first has him jamming with an octet taken from his orchestra, including such greats as altoist Johnny Hodges, tenor-saxophonist Paul Gonsalves, baritonist Harry Carney and trumpeter Cat Anderson. Highlights include "The Jeep Is Jumpin'," "Sophisitcated Lady" and "Jam with Sam." The second program puts the focus on Ellington's piano, in solo and trio performances that include "Lotus Blossom," "Mood Indigo," and a definitive version of "Take the 'A' Train." Always a modern and distinctive soloist, Ellington is seen creating brilliant improvisations full of strong melodies, subtle surprises and sly wit.

Credits

The Intimate Duke Ellington Cast

Name Character
Duke Ellington He was 104, 75 years old when he died as Himself
Johnny Hodges He was 96, 63 years old when he died as Himself

The Intimate Duke Ellington Crew

Name Department
The Intimate Duke Ellington poster
The Intimate Duke Ellington (20 years)

  • Release day: Tuesday, June 17, 2003
  • Runtime: 57 minutes