Duke of Lorraine

written in the autobiography of a man who meant these words when he said them (Bio.com). Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington, who is popularly known as Duke Ellington, is the man being talked about here (Encyclopedia). Duke had a warm childhood, a busy adulthood, and a legacy that will never be forgotten which included him composing the song “It Don’t Mean a Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing” (Bio.com). Duke Ellington was born on April 29th, 1899 in Washington, D.C. He was born to two talented,…

In Whiplash, at 1:17:25, Nieman is at a jazz club where his former teacher, Terrence Fletcher is playing. The scene opens with Fletcher playing a beautiful song while Nieman simply watches. However, when the song ends, Fletcher nods and gazes into the crowd, until he spots Nieman which causes him to immediately stop. This cause Nieman to turn around and leave the club when suddenly Fletcher calls out his name. Nieman pauses and then lets out an awkward, “Hey.” A hard transition takes place and…

In Elizabeth Browning’s pleading letter to Napoleon III, Elizabeth uses many rhetorical devices in order to convince the Emperor of France to pardon Hugo. She flatters His Majesty Napoleon III in an attempt to win his goodwill. Second, she uses syntax in order to create an intelligent letter. Finally, she thoroughly explains her purposes to Napoleon. Thus using flattery, syntax, and logos, Browning was able to effectively persuade Napoleon III to pardon Hugo,had of course he sent the letter.…

Beautiful melody, unusually chords and a great sense of rhythmic patterns are only a few characteristics that describe Thelonious Monk’s music. Monk was one the few American jazz composers that gave a spiritual feeling in his music. During his lifetime he played melodies and used chord progressions that no one has ever played before. He epitomizes what a jazz musician is supposed to be, whether if it’s through his compositions, his piano playing or someone else playing his music, you know right…

Beowulf’s Bravery Beowulf, in the famous medieval poem of the same name, is the courageous and mighty protagonist in the story. He is a fierce warrior that is much beloved by his people and followers, as well as those he has helped through the years with vanquishing monsters and such. With every challenge that comes his way and through every battle he partakes in, he shows a tremendous amount of bravery, something that is most admired knowing the danger he constantly places himself in. There…

Listening to Jazz for the Soul Jazz is widely regarded as one of the most influential types of music in American History. Since it’s formation, jazz has represented the literal sound of freedom for many African Americans. James Baldwin’s “Sonny's Blues,” tells the coming of age story about a young man named Sonny and his life as an aspiring jazz musician. To become one of the great jazz musicians Sonny must focus on listening to those around him including his older brother. Ironically the…

Bolero reaches Puerto Rico Music Scene Generally, when you discuss about Puerto Rico’s music, some of the first things that occur to your mind include dynamic and a diversity of cultural resources. In addition to the original Puerto Rico music, nowadays, the musical scene of this country is also influenced by genres coming from other cultures, as well. One of these genres is bolero, which originates from Cuba. Having its origins in Cuba, bolero has quickly reached the souls of Puerto Ricans, so…

James Baldwin was a well known African American writer as well as a Social and Civil Rights Activist, as a result his works represented not only a personal aspect but also historical expression. Some of his stories were based during the struggle of identity in the African American communities as well as the fight against the predestined assumptions of racial hierarchy in America. In the story, “Sonny’s Blues”, We follow two brothers set in post World War II Harlem and how their lives take two…

Louis Armstrong was born on August 4th 1901 in New Orleans. His tough and painful childhood began when his father abandoned the family Shortly after he was born. Over the next 12 years Louis lived with his grandmother, Josephine Armstrong. At six years old Louis, and three other boys, formed a vocal quartet, It was here where he first felt his love of music grow, sometimes making up to $10 simply from those passing by tipping him, and his friends, in mere pennies. At twelve Louis was sent to…

Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington was born on April 29, 1899 in Washington D.C. His parents are James Edward and Daisy Ellington. Ellington’s Father was methodist while his mother was baptist. Thus Ellington’s upbringing had many religious influences on the household and his childhood. As a child Ellington was very artistic and many people noticed. Duke Ellington parents were both talented and musical. Ellington rejected an art scholarship and instead decided to devote his time to his first…