Duke Ellington was born Edward Kennedy Ellington in Washington, D.C. on April 29, 1899. His father, James Ellington, made blueprints for the United States Navy. James and his mother Daisy were both pianists.
At the age of seven Duke's parents enrolled him in piano lessons. His parents encouraged Duke to practice every day, even though Duke would have preferred to play baseball. Daisy also encouraged Duke to have good manners and elegance. A friend nicknamed him "Duke" because his elegant manner and dapper dress gave him the character of a young aristocrat. Read more...
Print this free coloring page, grab the crayons, and start the recording. Giving students a coloring page keeps them focused and quiet, providing you with an opportunity to introduce the classics.