signed USPS First Day of Issue Ceremony Program for the dedication of Scott #2211 22c Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington commemorative stamp, Performing Arts series, FDOI, April 29, 1986, New York, NY.  "In 1918, when Ellington formed his first band - 'Duke's Serenaders' - his musical repertory consisted of only one original song, 'The Soda Fountain Rag' ... Within ten years, Ellington had ... established his musical reputation at the famous Cotton Club ... he composed such classics as 'Satin Doll,' 'Cotton Tail' and 'Mood Indigo' ...   This program has been autographed by 15 ceremony participants, including Mercer Ellington (conductor, Duke Ellington Orchestra), McHenry Boatwright, Ruth Ellington Boatwright, Jimmy Springer (president, Duke Ellington Society), S.I. Hayakawa, and members of the Duke Ellington Orchestra. Program measures 9" x 6".