Bass-baritone ‘desires a better country’

Press release:

It was announced today that bass-baritone Gerald Finley has been appointed Officer of the Order of Canada.  Established by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1967, the Order of Canada is the centrepiece of the Canadian Honours System and recognises a lifetime of achievement and dedication to the service of the nation.  The honour is presented by the Governor General on behalf of all Canadians.

The Order of Canada’s motto is DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM (They desire a better country). Her Majesty The Queen is the Sovereign of the Order, and the governor general is the chancellor and Principal Companion of the Order.  Officers (post-nominal O.C.) are recognized for a lifetime of achievement and a merit of a high degree in service to Canada or to humanity at large.

Mr Finley said, “I am extremely honoured to be appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada. Beginning in Ottawa, I have been very fortunate to make music throughout the world and to encourage younger artists along the way. Singing enriches all of us. It is particularly nice to be performing in Canada again in the autumn with the Canadian Opera Company in the title role of Verdi’s Falstaff, a wonderful celebration of life and friendship.”