November 29 will be the 100th anniversary of the birth of Billy Strayhorn, one of least known major Jazz composers and arrangers during his lifetime – overshadowed by Duke Ellington with whom he worked for nearly 30 years.
It would appear that a major factor in his lack of recognition was his own reticence – brought on, in part, because he was gay at a time, and in a business, when homosexuality was, at the very least, frowned upon.
In retrospect, it is clear that Ellington often co-opted Strayhorn compositions as his own – a pattern Duke followed with many others with who he worked. For more information on that practice, take a look at his biography, Terry Teachout’s “Duke, a Life of Duke Ellington”, available at the library.
Strayhorn was born in Dayton, Ohio – and was writing music – and performing while still in High School in Pittsburg. Indeed, one of the songs he wrote then, “Life is Lonely” was later renamed “Lush Life” – which became the title of his biography, written by David Hadju, published nearly 20 years ago. The library has a copy – check it out.
There is also a film of the same name – which will be playing as a part of the Earshot Jazz Festival in Seattle at 7:30 pm on Wednesday, November 11 at the Northwest Film Forum.
Speaking of the Earshot Jazz Festival, this year it is presenting several musical events related to Strayhorn. The Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra is presenting a concert entitled ‘Lush Life’ three times – November 7, 8 and 9.