Canadian jazz pianist Oliver Jones dies at 91 in Montreal

Renowned Canadian jazz pianist Oliver Jones has died at the age of 91. The celebrated musician passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, in Montreal, according to a statement from his family and his record label, Justin Time Records.

Jones was born in 1934 and raised in Montreal's historic Little Burgundy neighborhood, a vibrant Black community often called the Harlem of the North. He began playing piano at age five under the tutelage of Daisy Sweeney, the sister of jazz legend Oscar Peterson, who became a lifelong friend and mentor. Jones's career spanned more than seven decades, taking him from classical training to pop music and ultimately to international jazz stardom.

After beginning his professional life in nightclubs as a child prodigy, Jones spent 16 years working as a musical director and arranger in the pop sphere, including a move to Puerto Rico in 1964. He returned to Montreal in 1980, determined to focus on jazz. His breakthrough came relatively late, as he approached 50, but he quickly won acclaim for his phenomenal technique and hard-swinging style.

Throughout his career, Jones earned numerous accolades, including a Juno Award, appointment as an Officer of the Order...