Definition

Proper noun * Thelonious Sphere Monk: An American jazz pianist and composer, widely regarded as one of the most important and influential figures in the history of jazz. He was a key architect of the bebop style and is renowned for his unique, idiosyncratic approach to harmony and rhythm.

Usage

• Thelonious Sphere Monk's compositions, such as "'Round Midnight" and "Blue Monk," are jazz standards.
• Scholars study the harmonic innovations of Thelonious Sphere Monk.
• The music of Thelonious Sphere Monk is characterized by its percussive attack and use of space.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used attributively to describe a style or influence reminiscent of the musician.
  • The pianist has a distinctly Monk-ish approach to improvisation.
  • That chord voicing is very Thelonious Monk.

Variants and Related Words

• Monk: A common shortened, informal reference to the full name.
  • I've been listening to a lot of Monk lately.
• Thelonious Monk: The most frequently used form of the name, omitting the middle name "Sphere."

Synonyms

• Jazz innovator
• Bebop pioneer

Related Idioms/Phrases

• Sound like Monk: To play piano or compose with a similar rhythmic and harmonic complexity.
  • Few pianists can truly sound like Monk.

Noun

1. United States jazz pianist who was one of the founders of the bebop style (1917-1982)