- Format: CD
- Label: Fantasy
- Genre: Jazz
The British Royal Family has inspired several of its jazz counterparts, from the Kansas City classic "Prince of Wales" that Count Basie recorded with the Bennie Moten band to Duke Ellington's eloquent music for Queen Elizabeth heard on The Ellington Suites (OJCCD-446-2). Oscar Peterson, a latter-day member of the jazz pantheon--and as a Canadian citizen also a subject of the British Commonwealth--paid his respects with this 1981 orchestral album marking the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana. OP nods to more familiar royalty with a touch of Basie ("It's On") and a movement that borrows from Ellington's "What Am I Here For?" ("Jubilation"); adds unexpected touches of electric piano, perhaps in honor of the thoroughly modern bride; and, with an orchestra arranged and conducted by Rick Wilkins, produces themes as inspired and majestic as his imperial piano playing.
Track listing: London Gets Ready, When Summer Comes, It’s On, Heraldry, Royal Honeymoon, Jubilation, Lady Di’s Waltz, Let the World Sing, The Empty Cathedral
