For me when you mention “14 grand pianos” it immediately conjurs up pictures of a scene in “Anchors Away”, shot at the Hollywood Bowl. It’s the one where Jose Iturbi conducts dozens of pianists in an intensely spirited rendition (Is there any other kind?) of the Hungarian Rhapsody. Last night’s performance at the Nuamberg Bandshell had a much more metropolitan air to it, aided no doubt by the program of Ellington tunes as well as the pictures of Bobby Short that decorated the bandstand.
It was the Duke Ellington Center for the Arts that hosted the unprecedented event featuring the Duke Ellington Big Band and the 14 grand pianos on the Great Mall. Mercedes Ellington, granddaughter of the Duke and the shows producer, performed brilliantly as the show’s MC. The event also paid personal tribute to Bobby Short, the famous pianist who, 14 years ago on the same date, unveiled the Duke Ellington Statue at Fifth Avenue and 110th Street.
About Central Park
Find all the information you need to enjoy your visit to New York City’s iconic Central Park.
Attractions
Central Park features 843 acres filled with classic architecture, gorgeous statuary and up to date sports, educational and performance facilities. Besides all of this there is the world famous Central Park Zoo and Wildlife Center and the Children’s Zoo.
Things To Do
From The Philharmonic on the Great Lawn to Shakespeare in the Park to SummerStage, Central Park offers an endless array of things to do, see, hear – and, with two full service restaurants and several cafes, taste. You can visit The Shakespeare Garden, take in a performance at the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater, take a ride on the Carousel – or just sit and people watch at Bethesda Terrace!
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New York, NY, 10028