June 18, 2010

Message from Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, on the death of Maureen Forrester

OTTAWA – It was with great emotion that my husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I learned of the death of Maureen Forrester, one of Canada’s impressive voices and a true opera legend. 

Born in Montréal, she quickly captivated the New York scene with her soprano register, which—over the years—evolved into a splendid contralto. She was in demand the world over and her renown quickly became international. But Maureen Forrester always remained faithful to her country and was a passionate ambassador of Canadian composers.

On behalf of all Canadians, we would like to offer our sincerest condolences to her family and loved ones. Members of the Order of Canada are also in mourning, and the entire country has lost a formidable woman of immense talent whose art touched and dazzled us all. We will never grow tired of hearing her voice.

Michaëlle Jean

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Media Information
Julie Rocheleau
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-7280
jrocheleau@gg.ca