album · May 16, 2015

Oscar Peterson Plays the Harold Arlen Song Book

Oscar Peterson

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VerveSee this day

jazzclassic rock

This 1959 album features Peterson exploring the songbook of Harold Arlen, showcasing his interpretive skills in a trio setting. The recording captures Peterson's definitive take on Arlen's compositions.

• The album was recorded in New York City on July 15, 1959. It features Peterson on piano, Ray Brown on bass, and Ed Thigpen on drums. The album was reissued on CD in 2015 by Verve Records.
• Harold Arlen wrote many popular songs, including "Over the Rainbow," "Stormy Weather," and "The Man That Got Away." Peterson's rendition of these tunes are considered definitive by many jazz critics.
• The album was originally released in 1959 on Verve Records. It has been reissued multiple times on CD and vinyl.

Oscar Peterson was a Canadian jazz pianist and composer, known for his virtuosic technique and melodic improvisations. He was one of the most recorded artists in jazz history.