Oscar Peterson, a Montreal-born virtuoso often hailed as jazz’s greatest pianist, composed the Africa Suite in the 1980s. Largely unperformed during his lifetime, the suite included “The Fallen Warrior,” inspired by Nelson Mandela while imprisoned. Peterson met Mandela in 1988, though his music had been banned under apartheid. After Peterson’s death, his widow, Kelly, worked to share the suite globally, culminating in its 2020 premiere in Toronto’s Koerner Hall, arranged by John Clayton.

Clayton, cofounder of the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra with Jeff Hamilton and Jeff Clayton, crafted the ensemble’s signature blend of influences from Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Thad Jones. The 19-piece orchestra tours internationally, collaborating with icons like Diana Krall and Natalie Cole.

Peterson’s protégé Benny Green and Ohio-raised guitarist Dan Wilson continue jazz’s rich traditions. Green toured with legends like Art Blakey, while Wilson, mentored by Christian McBride, gained acclaim for his innovative, genre-spanning artistry.

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