Suzie LeBlanc Awarded Knight Of Arts & Letters By France in Vancouver

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Vancouver, BC – On November 27, 2024, renowned Canadian soprano Suzie LeBlanc has been awarded France’s prestigious Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters (Chevalière de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres) by the Ambassador of France to Canada, Michel Miraillet, during a private ceremony in Vancouver. Ms LeBlanc is being recognized for her outstanding contributions to the world of music her deep ties with France and dedication to fostering cultural and linguistic connections between the two countries.

Born in Acadia, Suzie LeBlanc’s roots are deeply embedded in the French-speaking world, and her connection to France is part of a long-standing historical bond between Acadia and France, including through music and singing of French traditional songs from regions like Normandy or Brittany, regions where a lot of Acadian come from.

This honor celebrates not only Suzie LeBlanc’s exceptional career in Canada and internationally, but also her decades of tireless dedication to strengthening the cultural ties between France and Canada. In 2021, Ms. LeBlanc took on the role of Executive and Artistic Director of Early Music Vancouver, where she successfully revitalized the organization in the wake of the pandemic. Under her leadership, Early Music Vancouver has flourished as a vibrant cultural hub, regularly hosting world-class French artists and ensembles. Notable performances have included renowned lutenist Thomas Dunford, ensemble Correspondances, Diabolus in Musica, and A Filetta, among others.

Through her efforts, Ms. LeBlanc has enriched Vancouver’s arts scene with a diverse range of musical performances, while her ongoing commitment to promoting early music and bringing French composers and artists to Canada underscores her belief in the power of cultural collaboration.

Quotes

“I am very moved to receive the title of “Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters” from the hands of the Ambassador of France to Canada, Michel Miraillet, in the presence of the Consul General of France in Vancouver, Nicolas Baudoin. This recognition touches me deeply and I am honored to now be part of the rich French cultural heritage.” Suzie LeBlanc

“Your commitment to reviving and celebrating historical repertoires, both Acadian and European, and to promoting the music of French composers has made you a leading figure in the Canadian music scene.” Michel Miraillet

About the order

This order of Arts and Letters, l’ordre des Arts et Lettres, was created in 1957 to recognize writers, artists and creators, be they French or Foreigners, and is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts and literature, and whose work has had an impact on French culture and beyond. The order includes three ranks (knight, officer, and commander).

Notable past Canadian recipients of the order in the arts include Acadian writer Antonine Maillet, filmmakers Denis Villeneuve and Xavier Dolan. Learn more at https://www.culture.gouv.fr/nous-connaitre/organisation-du-ministere/Conseil-de-l-Ordre-des-Arts-et-des-Lettres

About the Consulate General of France in Vancouver

The Consulate General of France in Vancouver represents the government of France in Western Canada, serving as a diplomatic and collaboration hub. Its jurisdiction includes Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, the Yukon and the Northwest Territories. It provides consular services to French nationals residing or traveling in the region. In addition to its administrative functions, the Consulate plays an essential role in promoting France’s attractiveness and culture through collaborations and organizing a wide range of events. It works closely with local governments, businesses, and community organizations.

The cultural services in particular, promote the French language, education collaboration and the best of French arts and artists, including by bringing artists, authors, dansers, choreographers, etc to the jurisdiction. It also builds partnerships between French and Canadian artists and institutions on both sides of the Atlantic. Learn more at https://vancouver.consulfrance.org/-Education-culture-