The North West Duke Ellington Orchestra embarks on its first-ever tour this spring, marking World Jazz Day with a special performance at Liverpool’s Capstone Theatre on Wednesday 30th April, before headlining the free stage at the Cheltenham Jazz Festival on Saturday 3rd May.
Directed by acclaimed saxophonist and bandleader Phil Shotton, the 15-piece big band brings together Ellington-obsessed musicians from across the North West, including Cheshire, Lancashire, Liverpool City Region, and Manchester. The orchestra is dedicated to celebrating the music of jazz legend Duke Ellington, performing pieces from across his illustrious career—from his early 1920s Cotton Club dance tunes to the dynamic and sophisticated suites of the 1950s.
The ensemble performs music largely sourced from The Lincoln Centre Jazz Orchestra’s ‘Essentially Ellington’ programme, featuring note-for-note transcriptions of historic live performances by The Duke Ellington Orchestra. The band gives audiences an authentic experience of the timeless brilliance of Ellington and his long-time collaborator, Billy Strayhorn, as they were meant to be heard.
Founded in 2024—a year marking the 125th anniversary of Ellington’s birth and the 50th anniversary of his death—the North West Duke Ellington Orchestra has already made a significant impact, with highlights from their debut concerts available on their Facebook page.
Dan Stinson, Founder of the North West Duke Ellington Orchestra and saxophone player said:
“Duke Ellington’s music is fabulous. Playing it fills us with joy, and I know that audiences love it too.”
Phil Shotton, Musical Director said:
“This is wonderful music to play, to listen to and to dance to. It sounds as modern and exciting today as the day it was written. We endeavour to capture the excitement and style of these fabulous compositions. It’s an incredible experience to bring together such talented musicians to celebrate the genius of Duke Ellington. This tour is an exciting milestone for us, bringing the best of the North West to new audiences in Liverpool and at one of the UK’s most important Jazz Festivals in Cheltenham.”
For more information, visit or follow the band on Facebook.
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