Manhattan’s Michael Rosenfeld Gallery is displaying Duke Ellington’s white, baby grand Kramer piano-the instrument on which he composed “Mood Indigo,” “In A Sentimental Mood,” “Caravan”-in an exhibit titled “Mood Indigo: The Legacy of Duke Ellington-A Look at Jazz & Improvisation in American Art.” This exhibition, which runs through July 30, marks the first time the piano has been displayed.
The piano is also currently for sale by its owner, Ellington’s nephew, Stephen James, and as a major artifact of jazz history it should go for a bundle. In addition to the tunes mentioned above, Ellington also used the piano to compose “Sophisticated Lady,” “The Mooche” and “Do Nothin’ Till You Hear From Me.”
The exhibition also features a selection of American art inspired by jazz and improvisation, including works by Romare Bearden, Norman Lewis, Gordon Parks, Archibald Motley, Jr., Stuart Davis, Alma Thomas and Gjon Mili.
The entire exhibit can be viewed online at www.michaelrosenfeldart.com.
The Michael Rosenfeld Gallery is located at 24 West 57th St. in Manhattan. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The gallery can be reached at 212-247-0082.
