Highlights from 2024
Looking Ahead to 2025

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.

  • Concerts and Performances: The Duke Ellington Center for the Arts (DECFA) will broaden the scope of the Duke Ellington Birthday Concert, featuring renowned guest artists and enhanced VIP offerings to provide an elevated experience for audiences.

  • Educational Programs: Mercedes Ellington will lead more lectures and discussions at prestigious institutions, The Kennedy Center, NYU, and Jazz at Lincoln Center, deepening public engagement with Ellington's legacy.

  • 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.