U.M.M.G. stands for Upper Manhattan Medical Group. It is a jazz composition by Billy Strayhorn, arranged by Clare Fischer. It was recorded by Dizzy Gillespie on April 27-28, 1960 in New York for Verve and released on the album Music of Billy Strayhorn - Dizzy Gillespie with Clare Fischer (1960). Composed in 1956, the piece reflects bebop and cool jazz influences, and is known for its ambitious harmony and lively melody. The title is an oblique dedication to Duke Ellington's long-time physician Arthur Logan, reflecting Strayhorn's personal health and his close ties to Ellington. The recording features a large ensemble including Hank Jones on piano, George Duvivier on bass, Charli Persip on drums, and a vivid Clare Fischer arrangement. U.M.M.G. has become a jazz standard and has been performed and arranged for various ensembles, illustrating Strayhorn's sophisticated late style.
