Scoreload

Here are some interesting facts about Calixa Lavallée and the Canadian national anthem, "O Canada":

1. Composer of "O Canada": Calixa Lavallée composed the music for "O Canada." Originally, the music was created for a patriotic poem called "Chant national" written by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier.

2. French-Canadian Composer: Lavallée was a French-Canadian composer, born on December 28, 1842, in Verchères, Quebec, Canada. He was a multi-talented musician who excelled in various musical instruments.

3. Music Career: Lavallée had a successful career as a composer, conductor, pianist, and singer. He also worked as a music educator, teaching music theory and piano.

4. "O Canada" Premiere: The music composed by Lavallée was first performed on June 24, 1880, at a Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day banquet in Quebec City.

5. Adoption as National Anthem: "O Canada" was not immediately adopted as Canada's national anthem after its creation. It gained popularity gradually and was officially adopted as the national anthem on July 1, 1980.

6. Lavallée's Legacy: Calixa Lavallée made significant contributions to Canadian music. His composition, "O Canada," stands as one of his most enduring legacies, symbolizing Canadian pride and patriotism.

7. Monument and Recognition: In recognition of his contributions to Canadian music and the national anthem, there is a monument in his honor at Jardins Gamelin, Montreal. He was posthumously inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1970.

8. Varied Musical Background: Lavallée's musical talents were diverse. He was not only proficient in classical music but also showed an interest in and composed military music, operettas, and salon music.

9. Tragic Death: Sadly, Lavallée passed away on January 21, 1891, at the age of 48, in Boston, Massachusetts, United States. His death occurred due to a sudden heart attack.

Calixa Lavallée's composition, "O Canada," remains a significant piece of Canadian heritage, cherished as the country's national anthem and a symbol of national pride.