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Blood Count

4 Extra Debut. A journalist talks to jazz musicians Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn, revealing a complex relationship. Stars Clarke Peters.

A day in the musical life and relationship of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn as they record Strayhorn's final composition, 'Blood Count'.

An interview with Time Magazine reveals some truths about their working methods and the question of artistic credit.

The action takes place during a recording session, and is based on extensive research into the working relationship of the two men.

Written by Ian Smith.

Duke Ellington ..... Clarke Peters
Billy Strayhorn ..... Don Gilet
Elaine Robillard ..... Ashleigh Haddad
Harry Carney ..... Steve Toussaint

Musicians:

Matt Home (drums)
Andrew Cleyndert (bass)
Dave Newton (piano)
Ian Smith (trumpet)
Alan Barnes (reeds)

Director: Martin Smith

A BBC Cymru Wales production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in April 2014.

45 minutes

Last on

Tue 4 Jun 202405:00
BBC Radio 4 Extra

Credits

Duke EllingtonClarke Peters
Billy StrayhornDon Gilet
Elaine RobillardAshleigh Haddad
Harry CarneySteve Toussaint
WriterIan Smith
ProducerMartin Smith

Broadcasts

  • Fri 11 Apr 201414:15
    BBC Radio 4
  • Fri 29 Jan 201614:15
    BBC Radio 4
  • Mon 3 Jun 202415:00
    BBC Radio 4 Extra
  • Mon 3 Jun 202421:00
    BBC Radio 4 Extra
  • Tue 4 Jun 202405:00
    BBC Radio 4 Extra