UPDATE - 3/7@8:54AM: Here's Neil Peart's reactions regarding the award from the Cape Breton Post:

... "We are especially appreciative for the presentation of this lifetime achievement award now - while we are still active (Too active, our families might say!)" said Rush drummer and lyricist Neil Peart in an emailed statement, noting that the band was putting the finishing touches on its 20th studio album, "Clockwork Angels," with a fall tour planned. "Since our performance ’lifetimes’ aren’t quite over yet, this high honour is not just a reward; it is an inspiration. We will continue to try to earn it." ...

Notice how he confirms a Fall tour. Thanks to John at Cygnus-X1.net for the heads up.

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UPDATE - 3/6@1:18PM: According to this Ottawa Citizen article, a gala will be held on May 5th:

..The gala - which usually includes tribute performances for the award winners and a performance by the winning band - will be held at the NAC on May 5. Tickets go on sale March 6 at the NAC box office and ticketmaster.ca.

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The Governor General's Awards are a collection of awards presented by the Governor General of Canada, marking distinction in a number of academic, artistic and social fields. This year's awards were announced earlier today in Calgary and Rush was awarded a Governor General's Performing Arts Award. From CBC News:

Rush may be perennially overlooked by the U.S. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but the band is getting an award for lifetime achievement at home. The rock power trio has won a Governor General’s Performing Arts Award. The band members are among the laureates announced Tuesday in Calgary. ... Rush, formed in 1968 by Alex Lifeson, Neil Peart and Geddy Lee, is one of rock’s most influential bands with remarkable longevity and a track record that includes selling more than 40 million albums. There’s been an ongoing campaign by Rush fans to have them inducted into the Cleveland-based Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But each year when the nominees are announced, the Canadian trio known for hits such as Closer to the Heart and Fly by Night, is overlooked. The three have been members of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame since 1994. ...

Thanks to Eric at Power Windows for the heads up.

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