We have a collection of 11 arrangements for Calixa Lavallée - O Canada
Did you know Canada's national anthem wasn't officially adopted until 1980? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Calixa Lavallée: The Father of O Canada
Calixa Lavallée was a Canadian composer best known for composing the music for "O Canada," which would later become Canada's national anthem. Here are some interesting facts about him and the anthem:
Early Life: Calixa Lavallée was born on December 28, 1842, in Verchères, Quebec, Canada. He displayed musical talent from a young age and was trained as a violinist and composer.
Versatile Musician: Lavallée was a versatile musician who excelled in various musical genres. He was known for composing operas, operettas, and other types of music in addition to patriotic compositions like "O Canada."
Composition of "O Canada": Lavallée composed the music for "O Canada" in 1880, initially as a patriotic song titled "Chant national." The lyrics for the anthem were written by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier in 1880, and they were later revised.
Premier Performance: The first public performance of "O Canada" took place on June 24, 1880, during a St. Jean-Baptiste Day banquet in Quebec City. It was initially performed as a French-Canadian patriotic song.
Adopted as National Anthem: "O Canada" gradually gained popularity and was adopted as Canada's national anthem in 1980, replacing "God Save the Queen." The anthem underwent some linguistic and lyrical changes to make it more inclusive of both English and French speakers.
Contribution to Canadian Identity: Lavallée's composition played a significant role in shaping Canada's national identity and instilling a sense of patriotism among Canadians. It has become an integral part of national celebrations and events.
Musical Legacy: Aside from "O Canada," Lavallée composed several other works, including the opera "The Widow," which was one of his notable compositions. He made valuable contributions to Canada's musical heritage.
Tragic End: Calixa Lavallée passed away on January 21, 1891, at the age of 48, in Boston, Massachusetts. His death was a result of tuberculosis, a disease that he had been battling for some time.
Honors and Recognition: Calixa Lavallée's contributions to Canadian music have been recognized through various honors and memorials. In 1967, he was posthumously inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Calixa Lavallée's composition "O Canada" continues to be a source of national pride and a symbol of Canada's unity and diversity. It serves as a reminder of his enduring legacy as a composer.