Officer of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: May 25, 2009
• Invested on: September 03, 2010

Don Thompson possesses a facility as a musician that is virtually unprecedented in jazz. A collaborator of choice, this accomplished pianist, bassist, and vibraphonist has played in ensembles founded by some of the biggest names in jazz in Canada and on the international scene. A man of diverse talents, he has also worked with luminaries as an arranger and producer, and many of his highly regarded compositions have been recorded by others. He has been recognized with over a dozen awards and has won three JUNOs for his recordings, which are known for their range, from mainstream to avant-garde. As well, he is an influential teacher and mentor.