Oscar Peterson at the Stratford Shakespearean Festival cover

Released 70 years ago

Oscar Peterson at the Stratford Shakespearean Festival

Oscar Peterson · 1956

75 min · 11 tracks · blues · funk · bebop

A vibrant blend of jazz standards and original compositions showcasing Peterson's virtuosic piano improvisation.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • vibrant evening gathering atmosphere
  • slow-burning emotional crescendos
  • headphone detail hunting experience
  • gradual build to a climax

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer quick, upbeat tracks
  • seek standalone single hits

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album highlights Peterson's virtuosic skills and blends genres, enhancing his reputation.
Themes
live jazz performance· Stratford Shakespearean Festival· piano improvisation mastery
Career context
By 1956, Oscar Peterson was already an established figure in jazz, having released several acclaimed albums since his debut in the late 1940s. This album, recorded live at the Stratford Shakespearean Festival, represents a significant moment as it captures his engaging performance style during a period of increasing popularity and artistic experimentation.
Stylistic neighbors
Bill Evans· Herbie Hancock· McCoy Tyner
If this clicks, go next to
Pastel Moods — Continues the vibrant jazz sound with a more introspective tone.
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Maiden Voyage by Herbie Hancock — Features vibrant harmonies and a blend of jazz standards with innovative improvisation reflecting the era's experimentation.
Now He Sings, Now He Sobs by Chick Corea — Combines virtuosic piano work with an engaging live atmosphere, emphasizing spontaneity and creativity.

Tracklist

New here? Start with "Falling in Love With Love".

  • 1 Falling in Love With Love Start here 6:16
  • 2 How About You? 5:53
  • 3 Flamingo 4:59
  • 4 Swinging on a Star 5:33
  • 5 Noreen’s Nocturne 5:31
  • 6 Gypsy in My Soul 6:23
  • 7 Nuages 5:05
  • 8 How High the Moon 9:44
  • 9 Love You Madly 8:01
  • 10 52nd Street Theme 4:13
  • 11 Daisy’s Dream 13:26

What to play next

This album is considered a Breakthrough in Oscar Peterson's catalog. This album highlights Peterson's virtuosic skills and blends genres, enhancing his reputation.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata