When Summer Comes – 2004

Oscar Peterson

Beautiful ballad playing by Oscar Peterson

Oscar Peterson (1925-2007) was one of the greatest pianists of all time, a brilliant artist who outswung everyone.

In 1993 he suffered a stroke that resulted in a major weakening of his left side including his left hand.

Despite that, by 1995 he was back playing again as more or less a one-handed pianist.

He covered up that deficiency by utilizing a sympathetic quartet and no longer taking unaccompanied solos.

Peterson’s rendition of “When Summer Comes” (one of his finest compositions) is quite touching; it also features guitarist Ulf Wakenius and bassist Niels Pederson with a supportive Alvin Queen on drums.

-Scott Yanow