I'm listening to a CBC program entitled 50 Years on the Night Train: Celebrating Oscar Peterson in which Robi Botos (piano), Dave Young (bass), and Alvin Queen (drums) play the songs from Peterson's album Night Train, released 50 years ago. It was one of his most significant albums. This concert was recorded at Victoria Hall in Montreal, Oscar Peterson's home town, on February 27, 2013.
While I have been listening to the concert on CBC Radio it is also available for viewing on Canada Wide on the CBC TV network. One can watch the entire concert or pick particular songs from the album – although I suggest that you listen to every note they play. The final song is Peterson's immortal Hymn to Freedom.
Robi Botos grew up in Hungary but later moved to Canada and worked with Peterson. His style is similar to that of the great Oscar but his interpretation of the pieces on this album is unique.
I had the pleasure of seeing Oscar Peterson play in person twice, once at the beginning of an evening session when there were only a few people present, including my wife and two children and another time in a formal auditorium setting (again with my family). He was the most amazing pianist I've ever heard. But I wish I had been in Victoria Hall last month listening to Robi Botos, Dave Young and Alvin Queen record this concert.
Thanks to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation for recording this concert and giving us the opportunity to enjoy it on audio or video.
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