Duke Ellington's Sidemen: The Colors of the Orchestra

Duke Ellington’s Sidemen

The unique sounds of Ellington

This list represents a sampling of some of the many musicians who passed through the ranks of the Ellington Orchestra. The unique sounds they created set a standard for artistry that has never been surpassed in Jazz music.

Harry Carney- Baritone Sax- A full rich sound, Carney had the longest tenure with Ellington. He developed a practice of circular breathing in which the player can continue to blow out through the mouth while inhaling through the nose. It allowed him to sustain notes indefinitely. “Sophisticated Ladies”

Jimmy Blanton- Double Bass- Also called the string bass, this instrument was still playing simple bass parts similar to a tuba until Blanton revolutionized the instrument. He could improvise like a horn player and create stunning intricate lines and fills. “Jack the Bear”

Bubber Miley –Trumpet- Bubber was the originator of the “jungle sound” of Ellington’s music. He growled into his horn and used a mute to create menacing sounds that became a trademark. “East St. Louis Toodle-oo”

Tricky Sam Nanton- Trombone- Sam Nanton took the growling muting effects of Bubber Miley and transferred them to the trombone. His unique results were an eerie human voice quality that defies description and must be heard to be believed. “What am I Here For?”

Johnny Hodges- Alto Sax- Hodges had a uniquely beautiful sound on the alto sax. It was described as “excruciatingly beautiful” by Ellington. He could bend and slide notes on his instrument like no other player before him. The results are a wonder to hear. “Passion Flower”

Cootie Williams- Trumpet- Cootie could play all styles and had a wide range of sounds for the horn. He could growl, play muted, play with a big beautiful open horn sound and improvise. Ellington considered an integral part of the band and would often compose pieces to highlight his versatility. “Concerto for Cootie”

William “Cat” Anderson- Trumpet- Cat Anderson was a high note trumpet specialist. His dramatic screaming trumpet became a necessity in the big band repertoire for excitement and power. “Blue Jean Beguine”