Tenderly

by Oscar Peterson / Ray Brown

During the early years of his career, pianist Oscar Peterson recorded as an accompanist for many stars, but also as a leader. While most of his sessions were with his trio, Tenderly showcases him in piano-bass duets with Ray Brown and Major Holley. Although he had been recorded by Granz playing at Carnegie Hall on September 18, 1949(the three tunes were eventually released), the March 1950 date with Ray Brown marks the pianist's first American studio recording. Peterson's original composition - the first tune recorded at that session - was appropriately titled Debut. The complete album Keyboard: Music by Oscar Peterson, which was recorded during the same sessions, has been added as a bonus. ****AllMusic Eight of the selections match Peterson on duets with bassist Ray Brown (the famous Oscar Peterson Trio was still over a year away), while four find bassist Major Holley joining Peterson. This version of 'Tenderly' was a big hit at the time and put the virtuoso pianist on the map, butPeterson was heading for stardom anyway. (Scott Yanow)