Watch Masters of Jazz: Oscar Peterson '63, '64 and '65

Masters of Jazz: Oscar Peterson '63, '64 and '65 is a captivating documentary film that highlights the musical genius of Oscar Peterson, one of the most influential Jazz pianists of the 20th century. The movie was released in 2017 and directed by Andrew Lane. It features vintage footage of the pianist's performances and interviews with several prominent musicians and jazz experts, including Quincy Jones, Herbie Hancock, and Ramsey Lewis.

The movie focuses on three years of Peterson's career, 1963, 1964, and 1965. These were critical years for Peterson, during which he was at the height of his career as a jazz pianist. Throughout the film, we see Peterson performing in some of the most iconic venues in jazz history, such as the Newport Jazz Festival and the Salle Pleyel in Paris. The film also showcases Peterson's relationship with his trio, which included bassist Ray Brown and drummer Ed Thigpen. The trio was known for its exceptional musicianship and was often referred to as the "backbone of jazz."

One of the highlights of the film is the extraordinary footage of Peterson's performances. We get to see the pianist in action, playing some of his most iconic pieces, such as "C Jam Blues" and "Night Train." The film also shows Peterson's improvisational skills, and his ability to seamlessly integrate multiple genres, such as classical music and bebop, into his playing.

The interviews with jazz experts and other musicians add an extra layer of depth to the film. Quincy Jones, for example, speaks about his first encounter with Peterson and how he was blown away by his technical skills. Herbie Hancock also shares his insights into Peterson's playing style and how he was a significant influence on his own musical career. The interviews help to provide context and background for Peterson's work, and they also highlight his impact on the genre of jazz as a whole.

Throughout the film, there is a focus on Peterson's approach to music, and his dedication to perfection. The viewer gets a sense of the many hours of practice that went into each performance, as well as the precision and discipline that Peterson brought to his craft. We also see his ability to connect with audiences, to make music accessible to everyone, regardless of their level of musical knowledge.

Overall, Masters of Jazz: Oscar Peterson '63, '64, and '65 is a must-watch for anyone interested in the world of jazz music. It is a powerful tribute to a true musical genius, who pushed the boundaries of the genre and inspired countless musicians to follow in his footsteps. Whether you are a lifelong jazz aficionado or simply someone looking to learn more about one of the most influential pianists of the 20th century, this film is a must-see. It is a moving and inspiring tribute to the power of music, and to the man who dedicated his life to mastering it.