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.
At the age of eighteen, Ellington wrote his first song intended for recording, which was done with the help of his father. He then went on to attend New College for the Education of Teachers at Columbia University, New York University, and the Juilliard School.