WESTPORT – The music and cultural legacy of jazz legend Duke Ellington will be celebrated at a Dec. 7 program at the Westport Library.

“Speaking of Music: The Life and Genius of Duke Ellington,” featuring both a presentation on Ellington’s life and career, as well as performances of his music, will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at the library, 20 Jesup Road.

To purchase tickets online in advance, click here.

John Edward Hasse, curator emeritus of American music at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, will present a multimedia overview of Ellington’s life, born 125 years ago.. 

Hasse is the author of “Beyond Category: The Life and Genius of Duke Ellington,” which chronicles the musician’s life, from childhood in Washington, D.C., to his breakthrough at Harlem’s Cotton Club, and overcoming racial and social hurdles to achieve international renown.

That will be followed by James Langton’s New York All-Star Big Band, featuring singer Audrey Martells, performing selections from Ellington’s repertoire, which includes such well-known numbers as, “It Don’t Mean A Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing),” “Mood Indigo,” “Take the A Train” and “In a Sentimental Mood.” 

Ellington also composed music for symphony orchestras, films and ballet performances.

The “Speaking of Music” series is organized by Westport resident Roger Kaufman, a musician and producer, to explore the diverse roots of American music through music performances and expert discussions. For questions, call the Westport Library at 203-291-4800.