... and effect. He broke all the rules-perhaps he was merely unconcerned with them-introducing dissonance to an unparalleled degree in jazz. During an illness, Ellington wrote two pieces, "Soda Fountain Rag," and "What You Gonna Do When the Bed Breaks Down?" He began his music career by playing these pieces at parties. Soon Ellington, though still toying with the idea of becoming a professional artist; he was offered a scholarship at an art school. At school he had met some of the musicians who would be with him in the years to come, including saxophonist Otto Hardwick, and, more importantly, drummer Sonny Greer. In 1922, Ellington and Hardwick and trumpeter Arthur Whetsol followed Sonny Greer to New York City. Unable to make a living, they returned to Washington. A year later, they were back to stay, playing as a band under the leadership of banjo player Elmer Snowden. By February, 1924, ...

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