We were sad to learn that Yves Mathieu, owner and director of the oldest cabaret room in Paris, Au Lapin Agile, has died. He led the Lapin Agile, this legendary venue for art and music located in Montmartre, for over 50 years.

For the past 20 years, he and his sons Vincent and Frédéric have welcomed Claudia Hommel to join the evening performances as a singer of “traditional” French song. And since 2017, they have opened the door to singers of the bi-annual Cabaret Connexion in Paris. A highlight of each evening has been to hear Yves’ glorious baritone voice and storytelling.

Five years ago, Working In Concert’s co-founder Christine Steyer along with one of the Lapin’s principal pianists Jean-Claude Orfali, interviewed Yves and put together this homage.

Yves passed away at the age of 98. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, frends, and fellow performers.