Known for her captivating and evocative music, this harpist and singer-songwriter founded her own record company in 1985, armed with only a how-to book and a small loan. Since then, Loreena McKennitt has sold over 13 million albums worldwide and has earned national and international awards. Constantly giving back, she has initiated projects as diverse as a family centre in her community, a national water search and safety fund and earthquake relief efforts in Turkey and Greece. She regularly performs in benefit concerts and donates portions of her record sales to worthy causes, serving as an inspiring example of caring, creativity, tenacity and immense musical talent.
Officer of the Order of Canada
Awarded on: 2026-04-17
Loreena McKennitt, O.C., C.D., O.M.
Stratford, Ontario
Loreena McKennitt has enriched and represented Canadian culture at home and abroad through her music. She has championed artists, supported military families as an honorary colonel, and fostered community through the Falstaff Family Centre and Wise Communities Stratford. Her leadership in public dialogue, reconciliation efforts and civic engagement have strengthened Canada.
This is a promotion within the Order.