Object of the Day

Duke Ellington's Wurlitzer Electric Piano

April 29

Today would have been the 120th birthday of American music legend Duke Ellington. This electric piano, made by the Wurlitzer Company around 1972-1973, was used by Ellington during many of his travels. He would use it to compose and play music, sometimes in the middle of the night.

Wurlitzer Electric Piano

Description
This electric piano was made by the Wurlitzer Company, in Dekalb, Illinois, likely around 1978. It is model 200A serial #129394L, and has 2 control knobs: volume and vibrato, plastic lid, vinyl-covered wood case, and 4 detachable chrome-plated tapered legs. The "L" serial number designation indicates that this piano was manufactured in Wurlitzer's Logan, Utah plant. This model, 200A, continued in production into 1980.
Location
Currently not on view
Data Source
National Museum of American History
maker
Wurlitzer Company
Date made
1972-1973
date made
1974
1974-1978
Credit Line
Gift of Edward K. and Gaye Ellington in memory of their grandfather "Duke" Ellington
Physical Description
plastic (overall material)
metal (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 18 cm x 98 cm x 48 cm; 7 1/16 in x 38 9/16 in x 18 7/8 in
Object Name
piano