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.

"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.