A coin honors Montreal pianist Oscar Peterson

Oscar Peterson was a multiple Juno and Grammy award winner during his 60-year career.

<q data-attributes="{"lang":{"value":"fr","label":"Français"},"value":{"html":"3million new coins will be circulating coast to coast starting on the 15thAugust “,”text”:”3million new coins will circulate coast to coast starting August 15 “}}”>Three million new coins will circulate coast to coast starting August 15 said the president of the Royal Canadian Mint, Marie Lemay.

The new piece reflects the greatness of the musician, she pointed out.

« We know that Oscar Peterson holds a very special place in the hearts of all of us. So, we created this piece to show how much we love him not only as a person, but also as the most talented, respected and influential jazz artist of all time. »

— A quote from Marie Lemay, President of the Royal Canadian Mint

Honor to culture

Céline Peterson said she was touched by all the honors the Canadiens give to her father.

Photo : Radio-Canada

For Oscar Peterson’s daughter, Celine Peterson, the fact that everyone can hold the newest piece of Canadian history in their hand and have the opportunity to learn about someone they may never have heard ofis both a pride and a privilege.

This is our culture, our black Canadian history, and we are so proudshe says.

Oscar Peterson is one of the artists who promoted jazz in Canadamusic from the southern United States.

Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland praised Oscar Peterson’s work. The success of the pianist is proof that culture plays a role in strengthening the relationship between the United States and Canadaa dit Chrystia Freeland.

We too often forget to mention that culture and talented artists like Oscar Peterson are part of the success of this relationship and his legacy is greater than his musical work.she added.

The Deputy Prime Minister sees through the coin bearing the effigy of Oscar Peterson, a continuity of the journey of the musical work of the artist.

He was also the first Canadian to win the UNESCO Music Prize in 2000.

« As Oscar Peterson’s music has traveled for decades, it will continue to travel for a long time to come. [parce que] I know that this coin will travel into the pockets and hands of Canadians around the world. »

— A quote from Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister of Canada