The Composer

"The Composer" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary Oscar Peterson, released on January 1, 2001, under the Pablo label. This collection spans over an hour and features nine tracks that showcase Peterson's exceptional skills as both a pianist and a composer. The album draws from five of Peterson's earlier works from the 1970s and 1980s, offering a retrospective of his creative genius.

The album opens with a tribute to Johann Sebastian Bach, celebrating his 300th birthday, through the first three tracks: "Jubilation," "Lady Di's Waltz," and "Night Child." These pieces demonstrate Peterson's deep respect for classical music and his ability to blend it seamlessly with jazz. The fourth and seventh tracks, "L'Impossible" and "Place St. Henri," are also original compositions by Peterson, further highlighting his versatility and innovation.

"City Lights - Live," "The Bach Suite: Allegro - Live," "If You Only Knew - Live," and "Hogtown Blues - Live" are live performances that capture the energy and spontaneity of Peterson's stage presence. These tracks offer a glimpse into his live performances, where his improvisational skills shine.

Oscar Peterson, born in Montreal, Quebec, is a renowned Canadian jazz pianist and composer. His contributions to the genre have earned him numerous accolades, including the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario. "The Composer" is a testament to his enduring legacy and his ability to create timeless music that continues to inspire and delight jazz enthusiasts worldwide.

Oscar Peterson, often hailed as one of the greatest jazz pianists of all time, left an indelible mark on the music world with his virtuosic technique and soulful swing. Born in Montreal, Quebec, in 1925, Peterson's musical journey began at the tender age of six, and by his teens, he was already making waves in the jazz scene. Known affectionately as the "Maharaja of the keyboard" by Duke Ellington and the "King of inside swing" within the jazz community, Peterson's career spanned over six decades, during which he released more than 200 recordings and won eight Grammy Awards, including a lifetime achievement award.

Peterson's dazzling solo technique and mastery of both technical command and expressive freedom redefined swing for modern jazz pianists. His collaborations with jazz legends and his numerous awards and honors, including the Glenn Gould Prize and the Praemium Imperiale, cemented his status as a musical icon. Whether performing solo or with his renowned trio featuring Ray Brown on bass and Ed Thigpen on drums, Peterson's performances were always a testament to his unparalleled skill and deep musicality. His legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and jazz enthusiasts worldwide.