Thelonious Monk is not just a jazz legend he is an iconic figure of twentieth century music whose influence still looms large over contemporary sounds. The sublimely innovative pianist was a genius who maintained a stubborn headed belief in his unique style whilst waiting for the rest of the world to catch up. The second most recorded jazz musician in history, which is astonishing when one considers Monk only produced seventy compositions during his all too short career. For Monkathon the Birmingham Conservatoire have organised an ambitious festival that will see every single one of Monk’s compositions performed across the city by groups, soloists and internationally renowned artists over nine glorious jazz filled days. Highlights include the Jump Monk event at the Red Lion Fri 16 Jun featuring Arnie Somogyi and his band paying tribute to Monk and Charlie Mingus, Saxophonist Chris Young at Cogs Thu 15 Jun and a symposium on Monk, ‘Being Thelonious’, presented by his biographer Robin Kelley at the Parkside Building on Thu 15 Jun. For a full roundup of events visit the Conservatoire web site here.

Mon 12 Jun to Tue 20 Jun at various venues.