Stravinsky composed Ebony Concerto in 1945, blending elements of classical music and jazz in a unique and innovative way. The piece was commissioned by Woody Herman, a prominent American jazz clarinetist and bandleader, for his ensemble, the First Herd. Stravinsky, renowned for his stylistic adaptability, embraced the challenge of writing for a jazz band, creating a work that simultaneously paid homage to the jazz tradition and showcased his own modernist sensibilities.

The title Ebony Concerto refers to the clarinet, often associated with the rich, dark timbre of ebony wood. The concerto is structured in three movements: Allegro moderato, Andante, and Moderato con moto. Each movement demonstrates Stravinsky's ability to fuse jazz idioms with his signature neoclassical approach. Syncopated rhythms, blues-inspired harmonies, and brisk, angular melodies give the piece a distinctively jazzy character, while its formal structure and contrapuntal textures reflect the discipline of classical composition.

Though not initially embraced by all jazz critics, Ebony Concerto has since been recognized as a groundbreaking piece that bridges the gap between classical and jazz music. Its bold exploration of genre-crossing elements highlights Stravinsky's adventurous spirit and his willingness to engage with contemporary musical trends. Today, Ebony Concerto remains a fascinating testament to the creative possibilities of collaboration and stylistic fusion.