James Pearson Trio

The term legend can be bandied about too often, but there is no danger of over-estimating the status of Oscar Peterson, whose influence on all jazz pianists is immense.

Oscars music has a wealth of colours.

It is virtuosic, fun, dramatic and beautiful.

He was also an eloquent man and was able to explain some of the great piano techniques that he would use, such as Stride and parallel lines at breakneck speed.The 2025 centenary celebrations extend into the 2026 Festival with James Pearson raconteur and pianist extraordinaire.

Enjoy some of Oscar Petersons best-loved tunes and some of his Canadian Suite which depicts a musical train journey across Canada, alongside anecdotes and musical examples of his playing style to get Sherborne swinging in style!