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Canadian jazz pianist, composer, and educator celebrated for his extraordinary technical mastery and influential contributions to jazz.Born in Montreal to West Indian immigrants, Peterson began formal piano training at age five. He gained international fame after a 1949 Carnegie Hall debut arranged by Norman Granz. Formed the acclaimed Oscar Peterson Trio in 1953, recorded over 200 albums, won eight Grammy Awards, and received the Order of Canada. Taught at York University and founded the Advanced School of Contemporary Music.

• Peterson's father, a railway porter, rigorously trained him in classical piano – requiring three hours of daily practice before school. This discipline forged his legendary technique.
• He turned down a Juilliard scholarship offer at age 14, opting to play jazz professionally in Montreal nightclubs instead.
• A 1993 stroke paralyzed his left hand. After two years of rehabilitation, he returned to touring by adapting his playing style, though with reduced dexterity.
• He was known for his humility: When Duke Ellington called him the 'Maharaja of the keyboard', Peterson insisted the title belonged to Art Tatum, his lifelong idol.
• Peterson's trio revolutionized jazz rhythm sections by replacing drums with guitarist Barney Kessel (later Herb Ellis), creating unprecedented harmonic flexibility.