In Memoriam - Jazz Legend Oscar Peterson

Born in Montreal in 1925, Peterson was viewed as one of the greatest piano players ever. His career as a musician and composer spanned six decades and earned him eight Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997. Down Beat Magazine annointed him best jazz pianist 13 times. Of his more than 200 recordings, his most famous ares his Canadiana Suite, which features jazz themes inspired by various Canadian cities Hymn to Freedom.

In 1972, Peterson was made an Officer of the Order of Canada and promoted to Companion in 1984. In 1978, he was elected to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. Five years ago, he published his memoir, A Jazz Odyssey: The Life of Oscar Peterson. In 2005, to commemorate his 80th birthday, Canada Post made him the subject for its first "celebrity" stamp, which was also the first to celebrate a living person.

He died December 23rd at his home in Mississauga and his private funeral was held yesterday. A public memorial will take place in 2008.