A "Knight" to Remember

Il Trovatore conductor Yves Abel was recently named a chevalier of the Orde des Arts et des Lettres. The honor is given out twice a year by the French government to those who contribute greatly to French culture throughout the world.

Abel, a Toronto native, is the co-founder, music director, and conductor of Opéra Français de New York, the only opera company in the U.S. devoted solely to French operas—from French Baroque works to contemporary pieces—with a bent toward rediscovering neglected works. (Stephen Wadsworth, who will direct Amelia in May, is also a chevalier. He was given the honor for his work on the plays of Molière and Marivaux.) Congratulations, Maestro!