On April 11, 2025, composer and pianist Jason Moran’s Ellington in Focus will illuminate Duke Ellington’s iconic jazz compositions, pairing music with stunning, rarely seen photography of Ellington by legendary photographer Gordon Parks.
The presentation, taking place 125 years since Ellington’s birth, will be interspersed with Moran’s personal narration about the significance of the jazz legend’s impact, punctuated by Parks’ images.
The one-night-only event in The Apollo’s Historic Theater marks a homecoming of sorts—a celebration of Ellington and Park’s artistry, both cultivated in Harlem, and Moran’s return to The Apollo since his participation as composer and pianist in 2018.
Jason Moran spoke to WBGO's Doug Doyle about the special presentation, Duke Ellington, jazz education and his early days listening to
Thelonious Monk.
You can SEE Doug Doyle's entire conversation with Jason Moran here.
