Overview
Bix Beiderbecke and Duke Ellington were pivotal figures in jazz, each leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Beiderbecke, a cornet virtuoso, was celebrated for his lyrical approach and purity of tone, influencing the development of 'cool jazz.' Ellington, a prolific composer and bandleader, pioneered 'big band' jazz and explored a vast range of musical expression, from popular dance tunes to symphonic works.