Yvette Horner (22 September 1922 – 11 June 2018) was a distinguished French musician and accordionist known for her iconic role in the world of French traditional music. Born in Tarbes, France, Horner's career spanned over seven decades, during which she became an emblematic figure of French chanson and bal musette. She studied music at the conservatories of Toulouse and Paris, and her finesse with the accordion won her the prestigious Coupe Mondiale de l'accordéon in 1948.

Horner's music encapsulated the spirit of France through her mastery of the accordion, and her repertoire ranged from traditional French folk tunes to contemporary compositions. She recorded over 150 albums and sold millions of copies, carving out her legacy as the "queen of the accordion." Renowned for her flamboyant stage outfits and unique style, Horner also became famous for her performances during the Tour de France, where she played atop a vehicle following the cyclists from 1952 to 1963, further entrenching her as a national icon. In her later years, she continued to perform and received numerous honors, including being made a Chevalier (Knight) of the Légion d'honneur, France's highest decoration. Yvette Horner’s lasting influence on French popular music and culture remains a testament to her extraordinary talent and enduring charm.

Genres

Bal-musette

Latest Release

La Ronde De L'Amour (Remasterisé)

Yvette Horner

Album - 12 Tracks - Released February 21, 2020