Oscar Peterson at 100: The Heart of Canadian Jazz | The Walrus
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Oscar Peterson at 100: The Heart of Canadian Jazz | The Walrus
"Born in August 1925, Oscar's fingers danced across the keys with a speed and precision that left audiences breathless. He broke barriers as a black Canadian artist, earning international fame at a time when the music world and the world at large was far from fair. His music inspired, challenged and open doors. And that influence hasn't faded. Musicians everywhere still feel it."
"Taurey Butler: I think it's global. I don't think it's limited to any one particular area. I tell people that sometimes too, like Oscar Peterson, I've never heard somebody's name said with more accents in my life. He's known everywhere. Angela Misri: Meet Taurey Butler. Taurey Butler: I am originally from New Jersey. I've been in Montreal about 15 years now, and I'm a jazz pianist, and Oscar Peterson is the biggest influence for me. He is the person I heard that made me really want to pursue jazz"
Oscar Peterson emerged from Montreal and became a world-renowned pianist and composer known for dazzling speed, precision, and joyful expression. He broke racial barriers as a Black Canadian artist and achieved international fame during a time of widespread inequality. His repertoire, performances, and advocacy opened doors for other musicians and reshaped perceptions of jazz. Contemporary pianists like Taurey Butler cite Peterson as a primary influence and testify to Peterson's global recognition and stylistic impact. Family stewardship and recorded performances preserve Peterson's legacy, ensuring continued inspiration for audiences and artists around the world.
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