As Accompaniest

While Ellington’s work as a composer and bandleader spurred his development as a pianist, he would also achieve renown as one of the greatest accompanists. He recorded magnificent duets.

Here is one with with trumpeter Louis Armstrong (4:00)


Another with saxophonist Johnny Hodges (4:35)

Listen (0:30) to trumpeter Wynton Marsalis describe Ellington's gift as an accompanying pianist.

Use the comment section below to respond: What does Wynton mean when he says, Duke knew how to "lay out and "not overplay"? Listen to the youtube videos again. How would you describe what Duke is doing on the piano?