Marian McPartland's Piano Jazz

Performer: Oscar Peterson
Engineer: John Jelinas
Producer: Dick Phipps
Distributor: IDN Distribution

Notes: Full performer name: Marian McPartland/Oscar Peterson. Personnel: Marian McPartland, Oscar Peterson (piano). Recorded on November 6, 1978. Includes liner notes by Marian McPartland. This is part of The Jazz Alliance Piano Jazz series. Liner Note Author: Marian McPartland. Recording information: 11/06/1978/06/02/1980. Photographers: Barbara Bordnick; Al Gilbert; Raymond F. Hillstrom. Marian McPartland has taped many programs for her long-running National Public Radio series Piano Jazz, and Oscar Peterson's first guest appearance on the show ranks among her best. Peterson's virtuoso playing is matched by his willingness to share with his hostess some of the techniques that help make his style so distinctive. Peterson's dazzling solos include a stunning interpretation of "Old Folks," a very refreshing take of the frequently recorded "Body and Soul," and delightful miniatures of "Emily," "Take the 'A' Train," and his own "Place St. Henri." McPartland's solo feature is her memorable, bittersweet ballad "Willow Creek." An adventurous romp through "Cotton Tail" is the gem of their several duets together. Previously issued by Jazz Alliance in 1996, this repackaged version adds no new material, but it should be considered a mandatory acquisition by fans of either Oscar Peterson or Marian McPartland. ~ Ken Dryden

Among the most prodigiously recorded artists in all of jazz, pianist Oscar Peterson early on forged a strong relationship with producer Norman Granz, and since the 1950s he has been one of the cornerstones of Granz's labels (Verve, Pablo). Peterson has primarily worked in a trio setting, alternately with guitar & bass or bass & drums, though he has also performed solo, with larger groups, and with a full orchestra. Possessing dazzling technique, Peterson always delivers the musical goods in a powerfully swinging style. Peterson passed away December 23, 2007 at the age of 82.

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