Leonard Cohen gives $50K Glenn Gould prize to Canada Council

Leonard Cohen accepted the prestigous Glenn Gould Prize at a star-studded gala in Toronto on Monday night (May 14) but will donate the accompanying $50,000 cash award to the Canada Council for the Arts.

"Thank you so much. I'm deeply grateful for this recognition," the 77-year-old singer-songwriter told the capacity crowd at Massey Hall.

Cohen is the ninth recipient of the biennial award, which was inspired by eccentric pianist Glenn Gould and recognizes a liftime contribution to the arts. Previous recipients include jazz great Oscar Peterson, conductor/composer Andre Previn and Japanese composer Toru Takemitsu.

During a brief appearance on stage, Cohen reflected on his early career and acknowledged the support the Canada Council gives to artists before presenting the prize money to Council chair Joseph L. Rotman.

The gala also included performances by the Cowboy Junkies, Serena Ryder, Cohen's son Adam Cohen, poetry readings by author Michael Ondaatje and actors Gordon Pinsent and Alan Rickman and a tribute by former Governor General Adrienne Clarkson.

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