Background
Ellis, Donald Johnson was born on July 25, 1934 in Los Angeles, California, United States. Son of Evert Ezra and Winston E. (Johnson) Ellis.
Ellis, Donald Johnson was born on July 25, 1934 in Los Angeles, California, United States. Son of Evert Ezra and Winston E. (Johnson) Ellis.
Bachelor of Music, Boston University, 1956. Postgraduate University of California at Los Angeles, 1963-1964.
November 1971); children—Brav Johnson, Tran Robert. Trumpet player with numerous orchestras, 1952-1966, including Glenn Miller, 1956, Charlie Barnet, Maynard Ferguson, 1958-1960. Numerous recordings with own groups, 1960-1966.
Leader Don Ellis Orchestra, from 1965.
Soloist National Symphony Orchestra, Washington, 1962, New York Philharmonic Orchestra, 1963-1964, Los Angeles Philharmonic, 1967. Performed Los Angeles Music Center with Stan Kenton Neophonic Orchestra in original composition Synthesis, 1966.
Tours United States, Europe. Recording artist Candid, Prestige, Pacific Jazz, Columbia, MPS/Badische Anilin- & Soda-Fabrik, Atlantic records.
Numerous television appearances including pilot Movin On, National Broadcasting Company series Doctor’s Hospital.
Member A.S.C.A.P., National Academy Recording Arts and Sciences.
Married Constance Cynthia Coogan, July 28, 1961 (divorced November 1971). Children: Brav Johnson, Tran Robert.