One of the giants of jazz, Oscar Peterson will never be forgotten. His music is with us forever. He was unique his playing was always of the highest quality.
I often, late at night, fall asleep with his wonderful music.
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Concert honours jazz pianist Oscar Peterson
Mon. Jun. 11 2007
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NEW YORK -- Doctor's orders prevented Oscar Peterson travelling from his home near Toronto to attend a tribute concert featuring Wynton Marsalis and other jazz stars at Carnegie Hall - where the legendary jazz pianist launched his international career nearly 60 years ago.
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"Even though he can't be here this evening and is quite disappointed about that, he sends his heartfelt thanks, his deepest appreciation and his love to all of you," Peterson's wife, Kelly, told the audience at the Fujitsu Jazz Festival concert honouring the 81-year-old "Master of Swing."
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Peterson's daughter, Celine, recalled it was on the same stage her father's "amazing career began."
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In 1949, jazz impresario Norman Granz invited a then-unknown pianist he had heard performing in a Montreal club to go to New York City for one of his Jazz at the Philharmonic concerts at Carnegie Hall. Peterson was brought up from the audience as a surprise guest to play a duet with bassist Ray Brown, overwhelming everyone with his dazzling technique and mastery of different jazz styles.
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