Oscar Peterson - Contributed

TORONTO (AP):

Pianist Herbie Hancock and singer Nancy Wilson were among the stars taking the stage at a tribute concert celebrating the life of jazz legend Oscar Peterson whose piano wizardry inspired and influenced many.

"I don't call many people geniuses but Oscar Peterson is definitely one ... ," said Quincy Jones, the music impresario and record producer who recalled that he was 16 years old when he first heard Peterson opening a show for the Count Basie big band.

"It doesn't get any better than this. I love being a part of a tribute to one of the greatest musicians to have ever lived," added Jones, in a speech to the more than 2,000 fans filling Roy Thomson Hall for the free Saturday afternoon concert called 'Simply the Best'.

Peterson died of kidney failure at his home in the Toronto suburb of Mississauga on December 23 at age 82.

Wilson sang the ballad Goodbye, while soprano Measha Brueggergosman, the Canadian opera singer, performed the gospel-like Hymn to Freedom, one of Peterson's best-loved compositions.

Loving father

Peterson's youngest child took the stage to recount memories of a doting father who loved to tease her and instilled in her a strong sense of self-worth.

"I miss his voice, his laugh, his sense of humour, the way he would say the perfect thing to make me feel happy," said 16-year-old Celine, adding that she had wished her father would one day walk her down the aisle at her wedding.

"There are no words to describe the pain that me and everybody else in my family feel and I know it will never go away."

Other tributes came from Peterson's long-time friend, Canadian bandleader Phil Nimmons, and Canada's Governor-General Michaelle Jean, the titular head of state.

"Touted as the 'Maharajah of the keyboard', Oscar Peterson has left an indelible mark on the cultural heritage of the entire world," Jean said. "Whether it was while accompanying the jazz legends, performing for royalty or playing for jazz lovers, he had an incredible ability to wow musicians and audiences alike with his dazzling artistic ingenuity."

The audience was also surprised by a phone call from singer-pianist Stevie Wonder which was played over the speakers.

Wonder said he was truly thankful for having met 'O.P.', as Peterson was known by friends in the music industry.