Valburn/Ellington Collection Span: 1924-1974 Bulk: 1940-1960 English collection 11 ft. 16 boxes Duke Ellington is considered to be one of America's great jazz composers. He studied piano at an early age and later moved to New York with the Washingtonians. His foreign engagements became increasingly frequent and successful in his later years, and he directed his band until his death in 1974. He received numerous awards and honors including the Presidential Medal of Freedom (1969). This collection contains numerous items documenting his career. Photographs (350), printed music (60), memorabilia (30), articles/clippings (200). Valburn/Ellington Collection, Music Division, Library of Congress Ellington, Duke Printed music, clippings and publicity photographs related to one of America’s outstanding jazz composers and performers. Researchers wishing to work with special collections are advised to inquire in advance about availability of material since many special collections are stored off-site. Certain restrictions to use or copying of materials may apply. African Americans in the Performing Arts Jazz Ellington, Duke Valburn, Jerry Performing Arts Encyclopedia scdb Music Division, Library of Congress IHAS 120821 loc.natlib.scdb.200033748