MUSI 188 - Duke Ellington: Life and Music

1 unit(s)

The subject of the course is the great jazz composer and bandleader Duke Ellington (1899-1974). As a world-renowned black musician from Washington, D.C., Ellington elevated jazz composition and arranging to a fine art, and he brought class and style to the performances of his band. We read about Ellington, listen to his music, view films in which he and his band are featured, and discuss his life. The writing assignments are focused on both biographical and musical issues, in which we explore ways to talk about the life and work of this remarkable creative artist. Alexander Bonus.

Open only to first-year students; satisfies the college requirement for a First-Year Writing Seminar.

Two 75-minute periods.

Not offered in 2020/21.

Course Format: CLS