Northern Illinois University Jazz Orchestra

Edward Kennedy Ellington didn’t need the concert hall: he was the most important figure in 20th century jazz. Leader of one of history’s greatest jazz bands, one of America’s most prolific composers, a brilliant businessman, a charismatic performer whose talent, poise and charm helped break down barriers of racial prejudice, the “Duke” earned his place in jazz history.

But his creativity couldn’t be contained by labels like “jazz” or “dance band”, and he sought to break free from smoky nightclubs and ballrooms, creating music that brought jazz band and symphony orchestra together to play music that stirred the soul as well as the feet.

Northern Illinois University’s award-winning jazz band, directed by Ron Carter, joins the RSO to make the Duke’s dreams come alive.

Biography for Ron Carter

CD Recommendations

Program Notes