Blood Count 

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Clarke Peters

Don Gilet

Ashleigh Haddad

Steve Toussaint

Ian Smith

Martin Smith

Blood Count

Drama: Biographical

BBC Radio 4 Extra - Blood Count

The story of the relationship of Ellington and Strayhorn, told during their final session.

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.

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