# Essentially Ellington: Celebrating 30 Years of High School Jazz Excellence
## The Evolution of Essentially Ellington
In the heart of New York City, high school jazz musicians from around the country gathered for the 30th annual Essentially Ellington competition. This prestigious event, founded by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra in 1995, has become a cornerstone of jazz education in the United States.
According to an article in *JazzTimes*, Essentially Ellington was created to honor the legacy of legendary jazz composer Duke Ellington and to provide a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent. What began as a small competition has grown into a national phenomenon, attracting top high school jazz bands and musicians from all over the country.
The competition consists of three days of performances, workshops, and masterclasses led by members of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Bands are judged on their musicianship, creativity, and ability to interpret the music of Duke Ellington. The top three bands are then invited to perform at a concert at Lincoln Center’s Rose Theater, where the winner is announced.
## The Impact of Essentially Ellington
Essentially Ellington has had a profound impact on the world of jazz education. By exposing young musicians to the music of Duke Ellington and other jazz greats, the competition has helped to preserve and promote the rich history of jazz.
In an interview with *DownBeat* magazine, renowned jazz educator Dr. Ron McCurdy praised Essentially Ellington for its role in shaping the next generation of jazz musicians. “The competition not only showcases the incredible talent of these young musicians, but it also teaches them about the history and tradition of jazz,” he said. “It’s a transformative experience for all involved.”
Over the years, Essentially Ellington has inspired countless young musicians to pursue careers in jazz. Many former participants have gone on to study at some of the top music schools in the country and have become successful professional musicians.
## Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence
As Essentially Ellington celebrates its 30th anniversary, the event continues to evolve and grow. This year’s competition featured a record number of participating bands, with over 100 schools from across the country vying for a spot in the finals.
One of the highlights of this year’s event was a special performance by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, led by artistic director Wynton Marsalis. The orchestra’s electrifying performance showcased the timeless music of Duke Ellington and served as a reminder of the enduring legacy of jazz.
Looking ahead, the organizers of Essentially Ellington are committed to expanding the reach of the competition and ensuring that jazz education remains a priority in schools across the country. With the support of sponsors and donors, they hope to continue inspiring young musicians and preserving the art form of jazz for future generations.
## What Comes Next for Essentially Ellington?
As Essentially Ellington looks towards the future, the question remains: what comes next for this iconic competition? Will it continue to inspire young musicians and shape the future of jazz education in America?
With the ongoing support of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and the dedication of educators and students alike, Essentially Ellington is poised to remain a beacon of excellence in the world of jazz education for years to come. As the competition enters its fourth decade, one thing is certain: the spirit of Duke Ellington lives on in the hearts and minds of the next generation of jazz musicians.