Quebec singer-songwriter Daniel Lavoie is described by the governor general’s office as “a leading ambassador” for Franco-Canadian culture.
OTTAWA — Singer-songwriter Daniel Lavoie and conductor Kent Nagano are among 83 appointments or promotions to the Order of Canada, the country’s highest civilian distinction.
In a document presenting the recipients, the office of Governor General Mary Simon describes Lavoie as “a leading ambassador” for Franco-Canadian culture who was “catapulted” to the top of the charts with the song Ils s’aiment.
Nagano, who directed the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal for nearly 15 years, is praised for his prestigious international career.
“He premiered and commissioned numerous works from Canadian composers, disseminating the unique music of Montreal, Quebec and Canada throughout the world,” the statement says.
The former president and CEO of Desjardins Group, Monique Leroux, is the only Canadian to reach the rank of companion, the highest rank within the Order.
The Governor General’s office describes her as a “key figure in finance in Canada” who contributed to the “remarkable growth” of the cooperative in the country and internationally.
Other nominations include economist and former Bank of Canada governor Stephen Poloz, journalist Joyce Napier, astronomer and science educator Pierre Chastenay, pop-punk singer Avril Lavigne and social entrepreneur Pierre Legault.
The Order of Canada recognizes the “extraordinary” contribution of Canadians to their country. It was established in 1967 and has the motto “They desire a better homeland.”