Monday, December 24, 2007

A Remarkable Musician

Jazz legend Oscar Peterson has died at the age of 82. As you can imagine, it is a great loss to music, and to Canada, as Peterson made us proud by becoming one of the world's most respected jazz pianists. 

I remember when I worked at Roy Thomson Hall and Massey Hall, Peterson performed one evening, and I passed on tickets to his sister. She was the sweetest woman, with the same beautiful eyes as her brother, and just as adorable.

A few years ago, Peterson made a special appearance at the HMV flagship store on Yonge Street. Popular jazz artist Diana Krall performed a special tribute to her idol, but the many fans who attended were there to see Mr. Peterson. At the time he was very frail, but obviously touched by the overwhelming response from his many fans. I'm so honoured to have seen that tribute. He will be missed.

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