Sax legend PJ Perry returns to B.C. roots at Vancouver International Jazz Festival

The Vancouver International Jazz Festival is in full swing and the coming week will see one of Canada's most famous jazz musicians take the stage.

PJ Perry, 76, began his musical career in1956 and since then has received numerous awards including the Order of Canada and seven National Jazz Awards. He's recorded dozens of albums, including 12 as a solo artist.

During his career, whichhas focused on saxophone, clarinet and flute, he has played alongsideMichel LeGrand, Ray Charles, Henry Mancini, Aretha Franklinand Dizzy Gillespie, among many others.

Before achieving international recognition, Perry now based in Edmonton started playing jazz as a teenager in Vancouver, learning saxophone from his father.

"I was very lucky.My father was a very finetenor player," said Perry during an episode of CBC's Hot Air.

Perry said his father purchased his first instrument by selling a cow from their family farm.

"It's actually a great story it's quite romantic," said Perry, laughing.

Perry 'set the standard'

Numerous Canadian jazz artists, includingCampbell Ryga, RossTaggartand Phil Dwyer, have said Perry was a huge inspiration to them in their career as both a mentor and friend.

Dwyer,who is based in QualicumBeach, B.C., and is also an Order of Canada recipient,has spoken fondly of Perry and his formative role in B.C.'s early jazz scene.

"[Perry] set the standard for saxophone playing in Canada," saidDwyer.

"He has provided guidance to generations of young musicians, inspiration to his peers, and thrilled audiences with his heartfelt and brilliant improvisations."

As part of the festival, Perry will play with musician JoaniTaylor at Frankie's Jazz Bar on June 25. He'll do another performance on June 27 at the bar with his band the PJ Perry Quintet.

The Vancouver International Jazz Festival runs until July 1.

With files from Hot Air

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