We have a collection of 11 arrangements for Calixa Lavallée - Robert Stanley Weir - O Canada
Did you know "O Canada" became the official national anthem only in 1980? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Calixa Lavallée: The Father of O Canada
Calixa Lavallée was a Canadian composer and musician best known for his composition of "O Canada," which eventually became the national anthem of Canada. Here are some interesting facts about him and the anthem:
Birth and Early Life: Calixa Lavallée was born on December 28, 1842, in Verchères, Quebec, Canada. He displayed musical talent from a young age and received formal music education.
Military Service: Lavallée joined the Union Army during the American Civil War at the age of 16, where he served as a regimental bandmaster and developed his musical skills further.
"O Canada" Composition: Lavallée composed the music for "O Canada" in 1880, originally as a patriotic song for the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Society. The lyrics for the anthem were written by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier.
Premier Performance: The first public performance of "O Canada" took place on June 24, 1880, during a Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day banquet in Quebec City. It gained popularity as a French-Canadian patriotic song.
Adoption as National Anthem: "O Canada" gradually gained recognition and was sung at various official events and celebrations. It officially became the national anthem of Canada on July 1, 1980, replacing "God Save the Queen."
Lavallée's Other Works: In addition to "O Canada," Calixa Lavallée composed numerous other pieces of music, including operettas, piano works, and choral music. He was a versatile composer with a wide range of musical interests.
International Career: After leaving Canada, Lavallée pursued an international career as a conductor and composer. He spent time in the United States and Europe, where he conducted and composed music for various productions.
Influence on Canadian Music: Lavallée's contributions to Canadian music are significant, as he played a crucial role in establishing a distinct Canadian musical identity.
Legacy: Calixa Lavallée is remembered as one of Canada's most influential composers and musicians. His composition, "O Canada," remains a symbol of Canadian identity and patriotism.
Death: Calixa Lavallée passed away on January 21, 1891, in Boston, Massachusetts, at the age of 48. Despite his relatively short life, his musical legacy continues to be celebrated in Canada and around the world.
Calixa Lavallée's composition "O Canada" continues to be a source of pride and patriotism for Canadians, and it is sung with great enthusiasm during national events and gatherings.