By the age of eighteen, Ellington had written his first piece to be recorded by his father ("Pigeons and Peppers"). Ellington attended New College for the Education of Teachers at Columbia University, New York University and the Juilliard School.
Ellington's musical career began at age eighteen when he composed a piece intended for recording. This was done with the help of his father. He then pursued further education in music at New College for the Education of Teachers at Columbia University, New York University, and the Juilliard School.