Piano Means to an End / Pianist

For Ellington, the piano was usually a means to an end. His playing was integral to his rhythm section, and he used it to galvanize his band. At his piano, Ellington would set tempos, signal band members, and often establish the tone and color of the next piece with one of his marvelous introductions.

Drummer Louis Bellson and trombonist John Sanders recall how Ellington used the piano for conducting the orchestra.
Listen (1:14)

Use the comment section below to respond: How did Duke conduct the orchestra with the piano? What did Duke do with his piano to get his band ready to play?

Go to As Accompanist >