Trinkle, Tinkle is a landmark jazz tune composed by Thelonious Monk, known for its angular, offbeat melody that instantly signals Monk’s distinctive style. It was recorded in 1957 during a session that featured John Coltrane and Wilbur Ware, and it appears on the album Thelonious Monk with John Coltrane, released in 1961. The piece is performed in 4/4 swing in E-flat major, with Coltrane on tenor sax and Monk on piano, and tempos around 155 to 158 beats per minute. It’s often cited as one of Monk’s most iconic melodies and is celebrated for its playful yet sophisticated melodic language. The tune has become a staple in the jazz repertoire and a favorite teaching example for practicing Monk’s unique approach to melody and rhythm.
