Ray Nance

Ray Willis Nance (1913 – 1976) was a jazz trumpeter, violinist and singer.

Nance is best known for his long association with Duke Ellington through most of the 1940's and '50's, afterhe was hired to replace Cootie Williams. Nance was the only violin soloist ever featured in Ellington's orchestra.

Nance made a few recordings as a bandleader, and also recorded or performed with Earl Hines, Rosemary Clooney and others.