On June 30, 2010, Ruth Abernethy’s bronze portrait of Oscar Peterson was unveiled in front of the National Arts Centre at the corner of Albert and Elgin in Ottawa. In 1999, Ruth captured the essence of the great Glenn Gould in bronze; he sits on a bench outside the CBC Broadcasting Centre on Front Street in Toronto. She has now created a lasting tribute to Oscar Peterson, another brilliant Canadian pianist.

Oscar Emmanuel Peterson was born August 15, 1925, and grew up in Little Burgundy neighbourhood in Montreal. He composed for piano, trio, quartet and big band and made recordings as a singer. He died peacefully on On December 23, 2007 at his home following a lengthy illness in Mississauga, Ontario.Oscar Peterson is considered one of the best jazz pianists of all time and one who has set a standard for future generations.