Julliard Jazz Orchestra "The Ever Modern Ellington 1920-70

The 1st Julliard Jazz performance spanned the musical genius of Duke Ellington from his earliest compositions in the 1920's through the early 1970's.  The evening showcased Ellington's broad musical oeuvre & the Julliard's student's expansive talents.  The students demonstrated their range for jazz styles:  ragtime, big band, swing and famous jazz standards.  Ellington's prolific work & his continously evolving style is astounding.  The 1st 1/2 of the program fell under the Grammy winning conductor Vince Giordano.  He led us through Duke's early years.  The earlier compositions had a ragtime sound utilizing the banjo & tuba.  "Liberian Suite: Dance #5" showed an innovative jazz style with rich undertones providing an exotic & sensual rhythm.  "Portrait of Louis Armstrong" had a New Orleans jazz sound stemming from trumpets & trombones & their use of instrument plugs.   After an hour plus set, award winning jazz composer Andy Farber took over for the students & shared his love of  Ellington's music.  "Lightning Bus & Frogs" was recorded in 1959 but not released until after Ellington's death in the '70's for which he received a posthumous Grammy.  It maintains a classic, contemporary jazz sound.  Julien Lee's solo on the alto sax was remarkable.  Pianist Michael Thomas' & Charles Goold on drums were also exceptional.  It was enjoyable listening to the expansive style Ellington brought to jazz and the passion the students brought to the music.