A pair of Mississauga musicians who are now playing in rock and roll heaven will be honoured at next month's 2008 National Jazz Awards (NJA).
NJA executive director Bill King announced today that jazz pianist Oscar Peterson has been named the NJA 2008 Musician of the Year while guitar legend and jazz horn player Jeff Healey will be posthumously presented with the NJA Artist of Distinction award.
Healey, who spent many years living in Mississauga, died March 2 of complications arising from cancer. He was 41.
"Jeff knew exactly why he was here and stayed true to the chase right to the end," said King. "Jeff heard something in his head. It was music stripped of conceit and false intentions. It was the rustic morning that gave birth to jazz that seduced. The music he played had destinations, each with a travel order, a train schedule and departing time. Jeff caught the last train and we know where it’s going. The band has a seat all ready."
The 2008 NJA gala happens Tuesday, April 8 at the Palais Royale in Toronto.
Show time is 8 p.m. Tickets cost $65.
Also being honoured is Doug Riley, who will receive the NJA 2008 Jazz Pioneer Award.
The evening will feature performances by the Mike Ruby Quartet, 13 year-old Nikki Yanofsky, the Brandi Disterheft Quintet, the Elizabeth Shepherd Trio, the Laila Biali Trio, Alex Bellegarde, the October Trio, Michael Kaeshammer and Kellylee Evans.
"We can all be proud of the artists who have paved the way and music programs that are now in place to support and nurture this next generation, the success is obvious with young artists from all regions of Canada advancing the art form," said King. "It’s about new faces, new sounds and a fresh take on the music we all hold dear."
cclay@mississauga.net