Member of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: May 2, 2013
• Invested on: December 13, 2013

Cape Breton’s musical heritage has been enriched by the contributions of Allister MacGillivray. A musician and composer, he is beloved for his original songs, many of which depict the traditional way of life of Cape Breton coal miners and fishermen. His compositions are popular with professional and amateur choirs, particularly his “Song for the Mira”, which is considered a classic and has been translated into several languages. His various anthologies and publications about fiddling, step dancing and the Gaelic language have also helped to preserve the island’s traditional culture.