The Legacy of Duke Ellington Lives On

Duke Ellington’s impact transcends time. With over 3,000 compositions, he remains a cornerstone of jazz and American culture. The Duke Ellington Center for the Arts (DECFA) is led by Mercedes Ellington, continues its mission to honor his work through performances, education, and community outreach.

Highlights from 2024

Symphony Space: The 125th birthday celebration at Symphony Space was an unforgettable evening filled with music, dance, and tributes to Duke Ellington’s enduring legacy. Mercedes Ellington and co-hosted by Tony Waag, the event showcased a stellar lineup of talent, including:

• Arturo O’Farrill, the eight-time Grammy Award-winning jazz luminary.

• Bobby Sanabria, celebrated drummer and bandleader.

• Eli Yamin, leading The Duke Ellington Center Big Band.

The evening featured dynamic performances by a host of world-class musicians and dancers, including Antoinette Montague, Marion Cowings, Ty Stephens, AC Lincoln, Max Pollak, Sharon K. Janda, The Tap City Youth Ensemble, The Rockettes, and many others. These artists embodied the spirit of Ellington’s “City of Jazz” with vibrant interpretations of his timeless compositions, paying homage to his innovation and creativity.

Kennedy Center: Mercedes Ellington contributed to the On the Road with Duke Ellington panel discussion and was the honored guest at the Jazz Houston Orchestra’s Millennium Stage Dance Event.

Collaborations: Ongoing partnership with the American Tap Dance Foundation to celebrate the synergy of jazz and tap dance.

Community Initiatives: Launched the Friends of DECFA Circle, on #GivingTuesday fostering support for Ellington’s legacy and encouraging new generations to embrace his cultural contributions.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Lifetime Achievement Award: Mercedes Ellington will be honored by the Martha Hill Dance Fund in February.

Signature Concerts and Performances:
- Celebrating the Legacy of Duke Ellington at the Statue
- Sweet Sound of Thunder Holiday Jazz Concerts at Symphony Space - - Mercedes Ellington as Grand Marshal at Dance Parade.

Mercedes Ellington’s awards, concerts and speaking engagements: - January: Alvin Ailey and Duke Ellington at The Whitney with JALC.
February: Mercedes Ellington receives the Martha Hill Dance Lifetime Achievement Award.
March: Honoring a Legacy: Mercedes Ellington at the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s Tribute Concert.
April: Mercedes Ellington, Honorary Co-Chair at JALC Gala.
June: Band of Bones performance.
September: Billy Strayhorn Inducted into the International Dance Hall of Fame.
November: Mercedes Ellington as Official Gala Chairperson for DC Youth Orchestra Program’s 65th Anniversary Gala.

Cultural Partnerships: Through ongoing collaborations with organizations like the American Tap Dance Foundation and new partnerships, The Duke Ellington Center for the Arts (DECFA) will celebrate Ellington’s legacy across a variety of art forms, expanding his impact into diverse cultural spaces.