Statement By The Prime Minister Of Canada

June 17, 2010

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement on the passing of celebrated Canadian opera star Maureen Forrester:
 
“On behalf of all Canadians, Laureen and I would like to offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Maureen Forrester.
 
“A world famous contralto who graced the world’s best stages, Ms Forrester’s voice and performances earned rave reviews from critics and an international fan base.
 
“Ms Forrester was also a tireless champion of Canadian composers, regularly promoting their work at home and abroad.  She served as Chair of the Canada Council for the Arts from 1983 to 1988.”
 
“Ms Forrester’s remarkable talents and contributions were recognized with numerous honours and awards. Among others, she was named a Companion of the Order of Canada in 1967, received the Governor General's Performing Arts Award in 1995 and earned a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2000.  She is also a member of the Juno Hall of Fame.
 
“Ms Forrester’s vast repertoire of music, which spans opera to burlesque to pop, will live on in the hearts and minds of music fans in Canada and around the world.”