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[Previous entry: "Class clown time"] [Main Index] [Next entry: "bee dogs?"] 10/10/2005 Entry: ""
For those of us in Nashville needing a good Jazz fix this week:
Thelonious Sphere Monk (1917-1982) is recognized as one of the most influential figures in the history of Jazz. He was one of the architects of bebop and his impact as a composer and pianist has had a profound influence on virtually every genre of music. He was known for his unique rhythmic and improvisational style and his many contributions to the standard jazz repertoire. At the age of 19, Monk joined the house band at Minton's Playhouse in Harlem, where along with Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, and a handful of other players, he developed the style of jazz that came to be known as bebop. Monk's compositions, among them "Round Midnight," were the canvasses over which these legendary soloists expressed their musical ideas. Monk passed away on February 17, 1982. His more than 70 compositions are classics which continue to inspire artists in all forms of music. In his lifetime he received numerous awards and continues to be honored posthumously. The Smithsonian Institution has immortalized his work with an archive of his music. In addition, the U.S. Postal Service issued a stamp in his honor. A feature documentary on Monk's life, Straight, No Chaser was released to critical acclaim. The Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz was founded to honor Monk by preserving the music to which he dedicated his life. Monk's integrity, originality, and unique approach set a standard that is a shining example for all who strive for musical excellence. The Belcourt Theatre will be showing the Monk documentary Straight, No Chaser before the concert and at other times during the week in conjunction with this event. Straight, No Chaser is a 90-minute documentary produced by Clint Eastwood which chronicles the life of the “high priest of Bebop” on and off the stage from 1967-1968. The footage reveals a lot about Monk's personality, including his dramatic mood swings and his eccentric behavior, as well as his sense of humor. Jazz fans and avid moviegoers should not miss this opportunity to pay tribute to one of jazz's greatest pianists and composers. On October 10th, the film screens at 6:30 with the concert following at 8pm. Nashville Monk Quartet
Solo Piano Performances
"Cosmic Faculty" from Cumberland University
Official Sponsors
Admission Price
Birthday Celebration Itinerary
Official showtimes of Straight, No Chaser
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