Celebrating the Legacy of Duke Ellington

Sunday, September 28, 2025 (2-4 PM)

At the annual event celebrating Duke Ellington’s legacy—hosted by The Duke Ellington Center for the Arts in association with the American Tap Dance Foundation at the Duke Ellington Statue in New York City—attendees can expect a vibrant and heartfelt tribute to the legendary composer and bandleader. Here’s what typically happens:

• The Duke Ellington Center Big Band performs, delivering classic Ellington compositions and jazz standards.

• Guest musicians, dancers, and vocalists join the celebration, showcasing a mix of jazz and tap dance performances that reflect Ellington’s influence across the arts.

• The event is co-hosted by Mercedes Ellington (Duke Ellington’s granddaughter and president of the Duke Ellington Center) and Tony Waag (artistic director of the American Tap Dance Foundation), who share insights, stories, and introductions throughout the program.

This project is made possible in part with funds from Creative Engagement a regrant program supported by the funding agencies: The New York City Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA) in partnership with the City Council, The New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature the Howard Gilman Foundation and administered by LMCC.