David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, recently announced the 2014 appointments to the Order of Canada. Included on this esteemed list of recipients is Jack Long, Yorkville Sound Founder and Chairman. The Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honors, was established in 1967, during Canada’s centennial year, to recognize outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. Long is being recognized for his engagement as a pioneer in Canada’s music retail and manufacturing industries who is committed to musicians, customers and employees across the country.
“Making music is a lifelong passion,” Long said. “Music is something that can improve people’s lives.” Long & McQuade was founded in 1956 when Long had the idea of selling instruments to friends in the industry. Fifty-eight years later, the chain has 65 Canadian locations serving musicians from coast to coast. In addition to building Long & McQuade, Long also established Yorkville Sound as a separate manufacturing and distribution company in 1963. Yorkville Sound continues to manufacture Yorkville Pro Audio, VTC ProAudio and Traynor guitar and bass amp brands at its facility in Pickering, Ontario.