Acadian Artist Honoured with Prix Grand-Pré Award

Acadian touring artist, musical and artistic director, and educator Daniel LeBlanc is the 2019 recipient of the Prix Grand-Pré.

The Prix Grand-Pré is an annual award that recognizes artists whose work reflects Acadian cultural values, while demonstrating excellence and originality. Mr. LeBlanc is one of the co-founders of the renowned Acadian band Grand Dérangement which has toured in Canada, the United States and across Europe. He is also the executive director for the Festival acadien de Clare, teaches music and tours with his new electro-fiddle project Comté de Clare.

“He follows a great tradition of Acadian artists that contribute to the incredible vitality of our unique Nova Scotian culture,” said Leo Glavine, Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage. “The diversity of our artists and the quality of their work makes our province a centre of excellence for a thriving creative community and industry.”

“Daniel LeBlanc has influenced and contributes to shaping the modern Acadian culture and music scene in Nova Scotia,” said Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Acadian Affairs and Francophonie. "His dedication to transmitting his passion for and knowledge of the Acadian heritage of Clare contributes to the preservation of the Acadian character of our Province.”

The Prix Grand-Pré is part of the 14th Creative Nova Scotia Awards Gala being held by Arts Nova Scotia and the Creative Nova Scotia Leadership Council at the Halifax Central Library on Nov. 2.

Quotes:

"He is a pioneer in Acadian music, as well as a pillar of the arts and culture scene not only in Baie Sainte-Marie in Digby County, but in all of Acadia. His career spreads over 25 years and Daniel has touched countless people with his art, especially young musicians that are now ensuring the succession."

– Natalie Robichaud, president, Fédération culturelle acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse

Quick Facts:

• the Creative Nova Scotia Awards include the announcements of the Prix Grand-Pré, the Portia White Prize, the Lieutenant Governor’s Masterworks Award, the Established Artist, Emerging Artist and Indigenous Artist Awards and the Creative Community Impact Award
• collectively, the awards are worth $95,000
• Prix Grand-Pré was established in 1987

Additional Resources:

https://artsns.ca/creative-ns-gala-2019