OFFICE OF THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR OF ONTARIO
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate release
24 December 2007
A MESSAGE FROM THE HONOURABLE DAVID C. ONLEY
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR OF ONTARIO
ON THE DEATH OF OSCAR PETERSON
I was saddened to learn of the death of Canadian music legend, Mr. Oscar Peterson.
Born in Montreal but making his home in Ontario, Mr. Peterson achieved global legendary status throughout over 50 years in the music business. Mr. Peterson’s iconic catalogue of work placed him at the forefront of the world’s jazz culture. He was honoured by Ontario in 1992 when he was invested with the province’s highest honour, the Order of Ontario.
Known as arguably the best jazz pianist, Oscar Peterson recorded nearly 200 albums and entertained with other legendary performers including Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, Louis Armstrong, and Canada’s own Diana Krall. His natural talent and magnetic stage presence contributed to the acclaim and awards he would receive throughout his life.
Oscar Peterson began playing the piano at age five and quickly evolved into a professional musician. He encountered racism throughout much of his life and even after a stroke in 1993 that disabled his left hand, he continued to record and travel throughout the world.
I join all Ontarians in mourning the passing of one of our most talented, beloved, and cherished musicians but we also celebrate his life and the joy he has provided us over the decades with his illustrious music.
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Contact:
Nanda Casucci-Byrne
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
416-325-7780