Bøker av Leslie Gourse

This first full-length biography of the legendary pianist/composer in English tells the story of the tragic life and creative genius of Thelonius Monk. Based on scores of interviews with his family, friends and compatriots, along with voluminous research, this book gives the reader insight into the elusive and often eccentric personality of the composer. It paints a vivid picture of the difficulties faced by a serious jazz performer in the 50¿s and 60¿s who had to battle to overcome racism to make his mark as a musician. Beautifully illustrated with rare photos.

One of the major trends since the early 1980s has been the emergence of women jazz instrumentalists. In this no-holds-barred history, Leslie Gourse analyses their influence and significance, interviewing the most prominent women, who vividly describe their own experiences and aspirations.