Thelonius Monk (jazz musician)

Thelonious Monk was an influential American jazz pianist and composer known for his unique style characterized by dissonant harmonies, inventive melodies, and rhythmic complexity. His approach often involved unconventional note choices and unexpected pauses, creating a distinctive sound within the jazz world. Monk's compositions, such as "Round Midnight" and "Blue Monk," are considered jazz standards. Despite a somewhat eccentric public persona, his advanced harmonic ideas and improvisational skill profoundly impacted jazz music, inspiring countless musicians and expanding the genre's expressive possibilities.