JAZZ.FM91 celebrates Oscar Peterson on what would have been his 100th birthday with a special Centennial Live to Air on Friday August 15th.
Oscar Peterson personified excellence in everything he approached. He was a gifted and multiple award-winning pianist, composer, educator and one of Canada’s most beloved national treasures. His legacy lives on to this day, not only in the music that he created but in the way he continues to inspire those who have followed him.
Dr. Oscar Emmanuel Peterson CC CQ OOnt was born Aug. 15, 1925. Because this day was blessed with one of history’s greatest jazz musicians, back on August 15th, 2022 JAZZ.FM91 officially declared August 15th as Oscar Peterson Day. The City of Toronto and its Mayor followed suit with an official proclamation.
To celebrate this day in 2025, JAZZ.FM91 is honouring him with special programming and a Live to Air performance from 2pm to 3:00 p.m. ET. The concert will feature JUNO Award-winning musicians, Robi Botos on piano, Mike Downes on bass and Lorne Lofsky on guitar hosted by Jazz FM’s own Heather Bambrick.
JAZZ.FM91 General Manager Dana Wigle adds: “Oscar Peterson spent his life sharing beauty, hope, passion and compassion. Oscar continues to inspire greatness and unity. He is a jazz legend and embodied values that all Canadians aspire to. We are humbled and grateful to help share his enduring legacy and we’d like to thank Céline Peterson, Robi, Lorne, and Mike, and our friends at Yamaha Music Canada for making this celebration possible.”