Oscar Peterson. Photo credit: Al Gilbert.

Commemorating the 90th birthday of celebrated Canadian pianist Oscar Peterson, a free livestream of the launch evening concert for new album Oscar, With Love – featuring jazz royalty such as Kenny Barron, Benny Green and Gerald Clayton playing Oscar’s own piano – will be available online on Friday, 11 December.

The new release showcases premieres of Peterson’s compositions, recorded in his home studio on his belovèd Bösendorfer Imperial. Announcing the new recording back in June, Oscar’s widow, Kelly, said, “Oscar cherished his piano. It is impossible for me to think of him without it. It is one of the finest and most unusual instruments in the world. Oscar handpicked it at the Bösendorfer factory in Vienna in 1981. It has never before been heard publicly.” And she added, of the concert, “We will be treated to performances of Oscar’s music by artists he greatly admired.”

Indeed, this album’s interpretations come from some of the greatest players in the world, including Monty Alexander, Bill Charlap, Robi Botos, Oliver Jones, Renee Rosnes, Ramsey Lewis, Michel Legrand, Hiromi, and also Chick Corea who performs his own new composition, One For Oscar. Primarily a solo piano recording, some tracks are accompanied by Peterson’s longtime friend and associate, bassist Dave Young.

Oscar’s piano is being transported to Toronto’s Koerner Hall for the special evening which can be livestreamed for free at The Royal Conservatory website.

LINKS
Video: Kelly Peterson announces Oscar, With Love
Oscar Peterson Music updates at Facebook