NMC Celebrates Oscar Peterson’s Legacy with Tribute Events

As the music world prepares to commemorate the centenary of Oscar Peterson‘s birth, the National Music Centre (NMC) in Calgary is set to host a series of events celebrating the jazz legend’s profound impact on music and culture. On August 15, 2025, the NMC will unveil the exhibit titled Timeless: 100 Years of Oscar Peterson, showcasing a remarkable collection of artifacts, awards, and instruments from Peterson’s illustrious career.

The celebration will feature a performance titled Andy Milne: In Tribute to Oscar Peterson 100, where acclaimed Canadian jazz pianist Andy Milne will play some of Peterson’s classic compositions. Milne reflects on the significance of Peterson’s teachings, recalling a pivotal moment during his studies at York University when Peterson advised him, “Learn the song.” Initially perceived as simple advice, Milne later recognized its depth, emphasizing the importance of fully understanding and connecting with music.

Milne’s personal journey with Peterson’s music began in his childhood, when he discovered the pianist’s recordings at the age of seven. These early interactions with Peterson’s work inspired Milne to pursue a career in music. “For Oscar, there was this mythology around him,” Milne shared. “You recognize that he is a national treasure.”

The Timeless exhibit not only celebrates Peterson’s role as a musician but also highlights his contributions as a humanitarian and advocate for civil rights. Among the featured artifacts is the story behind Peterson’s famous composition, Hymn to Freedom, which became an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement.

Born in 1925 in Montreal’s Little Burgundy neighborhood, Peterson’s legacy extends beyond his remarkable skills as a composer and pianist. His work has inspired generations of musicians, and the NMC’s exhibit aims to showcase the various dimensions of his influence. Claire Neily, senior manager of collections and exhibitions at the NMC, noted that many people appreciate Peterson not just for his music but for his innovative spirit and commitment to social justice.

The exhibit will also feature instruments that Peterson collected throughout his career, including the Roland D-50 synthesizer, which he famously played during the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. This instrument is a rare example of Peterson’s engagement with electronic music, a side of his artistry that continues to intrigue fans.

In addition to Milne’s performance on August 15, the NMC will host a variety of activities, including a concert titled The Music of Oscar Peterson Live featuring Sheldon Zandboer on August 16, as well as a talk by Milne at 1 p.m. that same day titled Oscar Peterson 100: Recognizing and Rethinking Influence.

The Timeless exhibit will remain at the National Music Centre until July 2026, allowing visitors ample opportunity to explore Peterson’s enduring legacy. Through a combination of performances, discussions, and immersive displays, the NMC seeks to inspire a new generation of musicians and music lovers to appreciate the rich history and cultural significance of Oscar Peterson.