Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn program
- Friday, Feb 27 // 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
- Black Hawk College Quad-Cities Campus
Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn – Presentation and Q&A with Gates Thomas
Join us for an unforgettable journey through this extraordinary body of American music, featuring rare filmed and recorded performances by one of the most iconic orchestras in history.
- Program will be in Building 4, Room 209.
- Lunch will be provided while supplies last.
About the presentation
“Mood Indigo,” “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing),” “Satin Doll,” “Do Nothin’ ’Til You Hear From Me,” “Lush Life,” “Sophisticated Lady” these timeless classics are only a glimpse into the brilliance of Duke Ellington (1899–1974) and Billy Strayhorn (1915–1967). While their songs became standards, the composers themselves believed their greatest achievements were their orchestral “suites” – sweeping collections of short instrumental pieces rich in color, imagination and storytelling.
About the presenter
Gates Thomas is a composer, conductor and recording producer whose work has been performed by artists including Pat Metheny, Gary Burton and the Lionel Hampton Big Band. His 2016 research fellowship at the George Washington National Library led him into a second career as a historian, focusing on 20th century music, the American Revolution, the U.S. Navy, Davenport and the recording arts.
