Duke Ellington at the White House Part 5

Description

This film presents highlights from a party at the White House in honor of Duke Ellington's 70th birthday. The event was held on April 29, 1969 and included performances by many well-known musicians, including Lou Rawls, Bill Berry, Clark Terry, J.J. Johnson, Urbie Green, Billy Eckstine, Dizzy Gillespie, Paul Desmond, Gerry Mulligan, Jim Hall, Billy Taylor, Hank Jones, Dave Brubeck, Earl Hines, Milt Hinton, Louis Bellson, Joe Williams, Mary Mayo, and others. Ellington himself performed an original song called "Pat," which he wrote in honor of First Lady Pat Nixon. Also shown is the presentation of the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Duke Ellington, and footage of the audience singing "Happy Birthday" to Ellington as President Nixon plays the piano. The film was produced by Sidney J. Stiber Productions, Inc. and narrated by Willis Conover.

Collection

Records of the U.S. Information Agency

Series

Moving Images Relating to U.S. Domestic and International Activities