Brochure cover for the Advanced School of Contemporary Music © Oscar Peterson

Located in Toronto, from 1959 to 1964, the Advanced School of Contemporary Music (ASCM) was founded by Oscar Peterson, Ray Brown, Ed Thigpen and Phil Nimmons, all of whom taught aspiring, young jazz musicians from across North America. The faculty also included Ed Bickert (guitar), Eric Traugott (trumpet) and Butch Watanabe (trombone).

The typical semester lasted 20 weeks and included weekly lessons on a student’s primary instrument, plus compulsory courses on piano, both in composition and theory. Most importantly, the students took part in experimental group playing with established musicians (Peterson, Thigpen, Brown, et al.) after which their performances were critiqued. Peterson also thought it was essential for all aspiring jazz musicians to have an understanding of the origins of jazz. Therefore, study included courses in music appreciation consisting of lectures, discussions and listening periods with visiting musicians 1

The school’s main goal was to provide young jazz musicians with a structured environment for learning. Having accomplished teachers provide such training proved beneficial for many artists such as Skip Beckwith (bassist), Wray Downes (pianist) and Charles Mountford (vocalist) who all went on to successful jazz careers after graduating from the school. 2

Despite its popularity, the school closed after only five years. Unable to keep up with the growing demands of the school, and burdened with an overloaded touring schedule, Oscar Peterson chose to focus his time on his performance career instead. 3 He did, however, go on to teach at York University in 1986 when he was appointed as adjunct professor of Music in jazz studies. He has remained involved with the university ever since, serving as its Chancellor from 1991 to 1993. 4


Footnotes

1 McNamara, Helen.   The Telegram, Toronto.   August 26, 1960.

2 Lees, Gene.   Oscar Peterson: The Will to Swing.   Rocklin, California: Prima Publishing & Communications, 1990.

3 Gerard, Warren.   The Globe and Mail.   Nov. 30, 1963.

4 York Gazette.   Vol. 16, No. 7. November 28, 1985.

O.P. & Friends

Previous | Next