Ellington’s orchestra reached an especially important creative period during the late 1930s and early 1940s. During this era, several exceptional musicians performed in the band, including bassist Jimmy Blanton and tenor saxophonist Ben Webster. Their presence contributed to what many historians regard as one of the orchestra’s creative peaks.
Another crucial figure was composer, arranger, and pianist Billy Strayhorn. Beginning in the late 1930s, Strayhorn became Ellington’s closest musical collaborator. Their partnership lasted for nearly thirty-five years. Ellington referred to Strayhorn as his writing and arranging companion, and together they created numerous compositions and extended works. Their relationship demonstrates that Ellington’s achievements were not simply the result of one individual’s work. He was an exceptional musical leader who knew how to recognize, encourage, and integrate the talents of other artists.
Ellington’s approach to composition was also unusually broad. He did not believe that jazz had to remain confined to short dance numbers. He experimented with longer compositions, suites, and works that combined elements of jazz, classical music, blues, spirituals, and other traditions. Through these experiments, he expanded the artistic possibilities of the jazz orchestra.
