The piano keys that changed jazz forever — and the man who made them sing.
This riveting music documentary traces the history of Jazz piano legend Oscar Peterson, from his early days as Montreal's teenage Boogie-Woogie sensation through his meteoric rise to international celebrity with Norman Granz and the ground-breaking Jazz at the Philharmonic and beyond. In this award-winning autobiographical portrait, legendary jazz pianist Oscar Peterson narrates his story, from his beginnings in smoke-filled Montreal clubs to hallmark performances with jazz greats. Concert footage includes an unforgettable combo -- Nat King Cole with Jazz at the Philharmonic and the Oscar Peterson Trio Wall reunion. Quincy Jones, Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie are interviewed, among others.
Acting
Peterson's humble charisma steals every frame he's in.
Cinematography
Intimate close-ups of hands dancing across piano keys.
Sound
Crystal-clear archival audio of legendary live performances.
Director
Sylvia Sweeney
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Oscar Peterson suffered a debilitating stroke in 1993, yet returned to performing within months — his comeback is barely mentioned here.
Peterson was one of the first Black artists to achieve mainstream Canadian celebrity, predating even national multiculturalism policy.
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