John Beasley's Monk'estra at Jazz Monster Concerts at Soka Performing Arts Center

About

An uncommonly versatile pianist and accomplished composer, Grammy- and Emmy-nominated John Beasley has carved an enviable reputation. His arranging skills find no better showcase than his smashing 15-piece big band MONK’estra.

MONK’estra captures the spirit of Thelonious Monk’s singular style with its off-beat melodies, humor, and unbounded swing in fresh arrangements flavored with hints of New Orleans, hip-hop, Afro-Cuban, and atmospheric rhythms and colors. MONK’estra pays loving tribute to the master’s music while infusing it with contemporary energy.