Thelonious Monk

Thelonious Monk was a pioneering American jazz pianist and composer known for his distinctive style, characterized by inventive melodies, dissonant harmonies, and quirky rhythms. Active mainly in the mid-20th century, he helped shape bebop jazz with unique improvisations and complex compositions. Despite a sometimes unconventional performance style, his work is highly influential, and many of his compositions, like "Round Midnight" and "Blue Monk," are jazz standards. Monk's innovative approach changed the course of jazz music, blending technical skill with creative exploration, and he remains celebrated as one of jazz’s most original and enduring figures.