Remembering the great Thelonious Monk who was born on this day in 1917. Known as one of the first creators of modern jazz, Monk’s music was known for its humorous, almost playful, quality. His playing was percussive and sparse, often being described as “angular,” and he used complex and dissonant harmonies and unusual intervals and rhythms. He was also one of the most prolific composers in the history of jazz. Many of his compositions, which were generally written in the 12-bar blues or the 32-b

Thelonious Sphere Monk III (born December 27, 1949) is an American jazz drummer, composer and bandleader. He is the son of jazz pianist Thelonious Monk. Biography Born in New York City, Monk began his music career early in his life, honing his skills throughout the 1970s. Monk's destiny was sealed when Art Blakey gave him his first drum set at the age of 15, and began lessons with Max Roach. After earning a reputation in school as a rabble-rouser (and graduating), the young Monk joined his fathe

“Blue Monk,” Norway, 1966. Captured during Monk’s European tour at the height of his late-career renaissance, this performance documents one of jazz’s most enduring compositions in its mature form. By 1966, Blue Monk had become a cornerstone of the modern jazz repertoire simple in structure, endlessly deep in feel. On stage: 🎹 Thelonious Monk piano 🎷 Charlie Rouse tenor saxophone (Monk’s longest-standing collaborator) 🎻 Larry Gales bass 🥁 Ben Riley drums This quartet defined Monk’s sound in

Thelonious Monk Quartet live in Norway, 1966. A central architect of modern jazz, Monk reshaped the music through his singular compositions and percussive piano style. Joined by longtime collaborator Charlie Rouse, with Larry Gales and Ben Riley, this performance captures a defining chapter of his legacy, preserved so the music and its makers endure. | Jazz Foundation of America