Oscaer Peterson was born on this date.

[Dyedinthewoolliberal]

[PJMcK]

1. One of my musical idols!

What an amazing musician he was. The breadth of his career is huge.

Thanks for the birthday reminder, Dyedinthesolliberal. Here's a "Wave" to you:

Oscar Peterson with Joe Pass on Guitar and Niels-Henning Örsted Pedersen on Bass.

[Dyedinthewoolliberal]

3. Thanks McK

[PJMcK]

4. Peterson's facility on the piano is incredible

He had complete control of the 88 notes.

I've always been deeply impressed by his complex harmonies and the structures of his arrangements and interpretations. Equally, his use of ornamentation when playing a melody was extraordinary. For example, he might play a grace note or 3-note flourish before a melody note. Likewise, he could play either behind or ahead of the beat creating an exciting push around the tune's pulse.

Although I have a vast many of his recordings as a leader, his early work as a sideman impresses me as well. One favorite of mine is an album titled "Ella and Louis" with Peterson on piano, Buddy Rich on drums, Ray Brown on Bass, Guitarist Herb Ellis with arrangements by Buddy Bregman. Of course, you'll recognize the leads!

With music by Hoagy Carmichael and lyrics by Ned Washington, my personal favorite is "The Nearness of You." You'll particularly enjoy Oscar's subtle comping when Louis sings his verse.

The man was a monster of music!

[dhill926]

2. K & Rfor this....

a giant....

[oasis]

5. Exceptional talent. Truly one of the greatest.