Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington is recognized as one of the great composers and orchestra leaders of the twentieth century. To understand Ellington's genius, jazz scholars, collectors, and fans must rely on the phonograph record, the most accurate testimony of the strength of his work. Duke Ellington: A Listener's Guide provides jazz scholars, specialists, and novice and experienced listeners with a detailed, critical commentary on this jazz master's recordings from 1924 to 1974. The guide begins with a brief overview of the artist and explores the complexity and unending creativity of his music. The chapters follow in a chronological sequence covering identifiable stages in output and list essential Ellingtonia. Collectors will especially appreciate the guide to the French RCA Works of Duke Ellington Volumes 14-17. The appendixes include a bibliography, a comprehensive discography listing both LPs and CDs, and a list of Ellington musicians with the dates of their membership in the band.