Cancelled Laurier Guest Artist Series: Oscar Peterson Centennial Project

Sept. 25, 2026

It is with profound regret that Laurier announces the cancellation of the Guest Artist Series: Oscar Peterson Centennial Project, October 1, 2026, 7:30 p.m. Maureen Forrester Recital Hall. We are deeply sorry to admirers and supporters of Oscar Peterson, and especially to the family and estate. 

In promoting the event, the Faculty of Music incorrectly used an image of the prominent Black pianist, Cyrus Chestnut, who had previously played a tribute under the title Oscar Peterson Centennial Project. This artist was not the pianist engaged for Laurier’s Guest Artist Series. This was an unacceptable and disrespectful error, particularly in connection with a project honouring the life, legacy and extraordinary contributions of Oscar Peterson, one of Canada’s most celebrated jazz pianists and composers. We apologize for this grave error and are reviewing our processes for creating and approving promotional materials to ensure this does not happen again. We have removed the incorrect material and ticket holders will receive a full refund. 

Wilfrid Laurier University Faculty of Music takes full accountability. The Oscar Peterson Estate bears no fault. We apologize to the Oscar Peterson Estate, performers and ticket holders for this cancellation.  

Ticket holders with questions can contact concerts@wlu.ca