An Analysis Of The Use Of Major And Minor Second Intervals In The Jazz Piano Of Thelonious Monk

Thelonious Sphere Monk(1918-1982)was one of the most important figures in jazz history and one of the most important innovators in jazz improvisation.He was one of the founders of bebop and greatly contributed to the development of cool jazz.His music was unique,with a strong sense of rhythm and a unique approach to reharmonization and to quotation unrivaled by any jazz musician to follow.Monk left an indelible mark on the bebop revolution.In his improvisation as in his composition and arrangements,Monk's unique approach to harmony and use of scales also imbued his music with an inimitable “Thelonious Monk” feeling.Monk stayed true to his musical conception and created a large body of compositions in his own personal style.In his body of work,the use of major and minor second intervals are one of his unique musical signatures.This thesis will analyze and expound on Monk's use of these intervals,with examples,and will offer a general overview of Monk's approach and contribution to jazz piano.