Ellington Carthan

Biography

Ellington Carthan Bio

Just like his namesake, jazz pulses through Ellington Carthan’s veins. This up-and-coming pianist's diverse career includes performing, teaching, producing, and composing. In January 2022, Ellington released his debut album Ellington Carthan Live: Volume 1. Since the album's release he has played piano for President Joseph Biden and Attorney General of Massachusetts Maura Healy. He has also performed at prestigious venues such as Blues Alley, Kennedy Center, Wolftrap, National Gallery of Art, Olney Theatre, Prima Theatre, as well as other venues throughout D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Ellington performed with renowned jazz vibraphonist Warren Wolf, opened for jazz icon Cecile McClorin Salvant, and performed with Afro Blue, Howard University's premier vocal jazz ensemble on numerous occasions. Like his mentor Cyrus Chestnut, Ellington enjoys blending genres and storytelling through jazz improvisation. 

Ellington was a 2021 Strathmore Artist in Residence and holds dual bachelors degrees in Jazz Studies and Music Technology. He received his Master of Music from Howard University in December of 2023. Ellington has maintained a piano lessons studio since 2010 and taught at Sidwell Friends School prior to joining SMCM. In July of 2023 he was recently appointed as a full time (tenure track) Instructor of Music at St. Mary’s College of Maryland where he will be teaching Music Technology Courses and directing the Jazz Ensemble.