Oliver Jones, Daniel Clarke Bouchard lead Oscar Peterson celebration
Proceeds from the 'Call me Ollie' concert will help repair Union United Church
Oliver Jones is eager to have 15-year-old pianist Daniel Clarke Bouchard at his side Thursday night, performing a concert to honour what would have been jazz legend Oscar Peterson's 90th year.
They'll play a duet at the "Call Me Ollie" concert Jones is holding at Concordia University's Oscar Peterson Concert Hall to help raise funds for repairs at Union United Church's manse, where Peterson was born.
Jones, 81, has been following Clarke Bouchard's career since the young pianist was about seven years old.
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Carry the torch
"It reminds me so much of the talent Oscar had at that early age. He is the future so we're looking to him to carry the torch," Jones said.
Jones has great respect for Clarke Bouchard, an accomplished classical pianist who has composed jazz music as well.
"[Daniel was] playing Carnegie Hall [in New York City] at 11 years old. I didn't get there until I was 62 and I was lucky to get there at that age," Jones said.
Clarke Bouchard is equally impressed by Jones, who hopes to be an ambassador for young talent after he retires next year.
"It's amazing the way he plays and [sends] such a good message to young people, it's fantastic," Clarke Bouchard said.
Repairing Oscar Peterson's birthplace
Proceeds from Thursday's concert will help pay for repairs at Union United Church, where Oliver Jones first saw Oscar Peterson play piano.
Jones was six years old at the time.
"I don't think I would have been a jazz pianist today if I hadn't seen [Peterson] at such an early age," Jones said.
In addition to repairing the manse where Peterson was born, Union United Church will use the money to install an elevator.
"There's a lot of us elderly people there in the church that need it," Jones said.
Clarke Bouchard is happy to help his friend and mentor.
"[Oliver Jones] has such a great aura that he gives off. He's taught me a lot," Clarke Bouchard said.
"It's an honour to play with him."
For more information on tickets to the "Call me Ollie" concert, visit Union United Church's website.
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