Inscribed in plaque: "2129 / WARD PLACE, N.W. / BIRTH SITE OF / Duke Ellington / April 29, 1899 - May 24, 1974 / Edward Kennedy Ellington, a native of Washington, / D.C., was America's pre-eminent composer, musical / innovator, orchestrator, and pianist. His unique and / elegant musical style provided the wonderfully imangi- / native harmonies and richly textured arrangements / that characterized both his solo piano performances / and his orchestrations. We, the beneficiaries of Duke / Ellington's great musical legacy, are honored to par- / ticipate in the celebration of his life and work. / DEDICATED BY / The Duke Ellington Commemorative Committee for the / Duke Ellington International Festival / April 29, 1987 / SPONSORED BY / The D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities / Government of the District of Columbia / Marion Barry, Jr., Mayor"