Final answer:
Duke Ellington significantly contributed to music by developing big band jazz, influencing composition and arrangement in the genre, and impacting culture as a prominent figure during the Harlem Renaissance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Duke Ellington made significant contributions to music in at least three ways:
- Development of Big Band Jazz: Ellington was a pivotal figure in the advancement of big band jazz. His orchestra became a model for others, and he expanded the expectations of what could be done musically within this format.
- Innovation in Composition and Arrangement: Ellington composed thousands of pieces during his career, many of which, like "Mood Indigo" and "Sophisticated Lady," are considered jazz standards. His innovative arrangements also utilized unique instrument combinations and voicings, contributing to the distinctive sound of his ensemble.
- Cultural Impact through the Harlem Renaissance: As a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance, Ellington's music helped define the era's cultural movement. His performances at venues like the Cotton Club not only launched his own career but also elevated jazz to a high art form and brought the sounds of African American communities to a broader audience.
Through these contributions, Ellington played an integral role in the evolution of jazz and its enduring legacy in both American and international music.