Classical Composer: | Ellington, Duke |
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Work: | Harlem (arr. M. Peress for orchestra) |
Year Composed: | 1950 |
Instrumentation: | 2(pic)22(bcl).2asx+2tsx[+barsx].2/4331/timp.2perc/hp/str |
Publisher: | G. Schirmer, Inc. |
Duration: | 00:14:23 |
Period: | 20th Century |
Work Category: | Orchestral |
Work Information
Available Recording(s)
Throughout his life, Ellington made frequent reference to the famed Cotton Club, the high-stepping center of Harlem nightlife which had launched his own career and those of many jazz artists from the era. In 1950, Duke paid tribute to his roots with a jazz portrait titled Harlem. He later added a provocative sub-title to the piece—A Tone Parallel to Harlem. Orchestrated by Maurice Peress, the piece is replete with emotive effects. At the opening, grandly scored brass shred the air with avant-garde timbres worthy of Carl Ruggles and Charles Ives, followed by an extended centerpiece of soulful 'down-home-blues.' In turns, the sonic canvas blends back to the modern realm, highlighted by flourishing percussion and brazen colors at the close.
Writer: Edward Yadzinski
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