Montreal’s music community is mourning the loss of jazz icon Oliver Jones, who has died at the age of 91.
The acclaimed pianist, whose career spanned decades and earned him some of Canada’s highest musical honors, is remembered not only for his extraordinary talent, but also for his generosity, humility and dedication to mentoring future generations of musicians.
Born in 1934 and raised in Montreal’s Little Burgundy, Jones grew up in what was then known as “North Harlem,” a thriving black community with a vibrant music scene. He began playing piano at age five and was taught by legendary music educator Daisy Sweeney, sister of his fellow Montreal jazz great Oscar Peterson.
Jones went on to build a remarkable international career, performing across Canada and around the world. Montreal International Jazz Festival founder Alain Simard said Jones had a rare gift.
“He could play a thousand notes a minute and never a false note,” Simard recalls.
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Throughout his career, Jones won numerous accolades, including a Juno Award, appointment as an Officer of the Order of Canada, and induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Longtime friend and collaborator Ranee Lee said Jones’ music came straight from the heart.
“I think Oliver is honest about what he does musically. It comes straight from the source, whether it’s the heart or the soul or the passion.”
Those who knew him say Jones never lost sight of the people who helped him along the way. Simard said the pianist remained remarkably humble despite his achievements.
“He would be grateful, thank you, if his success was due to me or the Jazz Festival. It’s your talent, Oliver!”
Producer John R. Kennedy, who worked on the documentary Oliver Jones: Mind, Hands, Heartdescribed him as “the sweetest, most humble man I have ever met.”
One of Simard’s fondest memories was when Jones came out of retirement to perform alongside Peterson at the Montreal International Jazz Festival in 2004.
“The two were like brothers,” Simard said.
Like his teacher Daisy Sweeney, Jones spent much of his life encouraging and mentoring young musicians. Friends and colleagues say his legacy will live on through the countless artists he inspired and supported throughout his remarkable career.
