In 1949, from relative obscurity, Montreal-born Oscar Peterson blazed on the scene with a Carnegie Hall debut. He was 24 and offered a unique "swing" style punctuated by the dazzling virtuosity that no one had seen before. Lees recounts Peterson's childhood and what it meant to be black and talented in 1940s Canada. He provides vivid description of his father, Daniel, a railway porter and severe taskmaster, anxious for his children's future and opposed...

Tells the life story of one of Jazz's all-time great pianists, Oscar Peterson; a technical virtuoso and master of swing whose life has been shaped by his own extraordinary talent and driving ambition. Includes vintage and contemporary performances, archival footage and interviews with Oscar Peterson and a cast of jazz greats.