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She always wanted to learn piano but did not have the chance when she was young. She started taking piano lessons during her 50's. and eventually became an RCM graduate. In September of 2003, she tried out her skills at an amateur variety show for senior citizens in Trois-Rivières (See The Walrus Nov. 2003 issue).

Overcoming her innate bashfulness, Madame Aline Chretien had agreed to put in a surprise appearance at the popular annual event. She was to play three pieces on the piano, an instrument she took up only as an adult.

Aline Chretien never liked the limelight, so this was a nerve-wracking experience for her. According to the ex-Prime Minister, his wife Aline Chretien did not sleep for three days. One of the numbers Madame Chrétien played that night was “Vive la Canadienne,” a traditional Quebec folk song The crowd of 1,200 seniors clapped, sang along, and spontaneously rose to their feet in applause as she wrapped up her performance.

Today, Madame Aline Chretien serves as the Honorary Co-Chair of the Friends of the Piano Pedagogy Research Society. She remains a piano enthusiast.

So, if you ever think that you are too old to learn piano, think again!