Montreal Jazz Pianist Oliver Jones Dies at 91
Oliver Jones, a renowned jazz pianist from Little Burgundy in Montreal, passed away at the age of 91. His family and Justin Time Records shared the news on social media, honoring him as “an exceptional musician” whose generosity and skill touched many lives. Over his illustrious career, Jones garnered multiple Juno and Félix awards, was named an officer of the Order of Canada in 1993, and received the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award in 2005. Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada hailed him as a jazz legend, while Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette acknowledged his significant cultural impact. The Montreal International Jazz Festival highlighted his 30-year participation and his memorable two-piano performance with Oscar Peterson in 2004. Jones will be remembered for his humility and kindness.
Key facts
- Oliver Jones died at age 91.
- His family and Justin Time Records announced his death on social media Wednesday evening.
- Jones received numerous Juno and Félix awards.
- He was appointed an officer of the Order of Canada in 1993.
- He received the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award in 2005.
- Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada called him a jazz legend who brought the city to the world’s greatest stages.
- Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette said the province lost an exceptional ambassador of its culture.
- The Montreal International Jazz Festival called him a true pillar of the Festival and noted his 2004 two-piano concert with Oscar Peterson during its 25th anniversary.
Entities
Artists
- Oliver Jones
- Oscar Peterson
- Soraya Martinez Ferrada
- Christine Fréchette
- John Mahoney
- Vincenzo D'Alto
- Allen McInnis
Institutions
- Justin Time Records
- Order of Canada
- Governor General’s Performing Arts Award
- Montreal International Jazz Festival
- Montreal Gazette
Locations
- Montreal
- Canada
- Quebec
- Little Burgundy
- Christ Church Cathedral
- Union United Church
- Ste-Cunégonde Park
- Sud-Ouest