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Franz Xaver Gruber is widely known for composing the famous Christmas carol "Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht," which is commonly referred to as "Silent Night" in English. Here are some interesting facts about him and the song:

1. Collaborative Effort: Franz Xaver Gruber composed the music for "Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht" in 1818, but it was a collaborative effort with Joseph Mohr, a priest. Mohr wrote the lyrics, and Gruber provided the melody. The song was originally written in German.

2. Premiere in Oberndorf: The first performance of "Stille Nacht" took place at the St. Nicholas Church in Oberndorf bei Salzburg, Austria, on December 24, 1818. It was sung as a duet by Mohr and Gruber, accompanied by Gruber on the guitar.

3. Simple and Intimate: "Silent Night" is known for its simple and intimate character. It was originally composed for a small ensemble, featuring just a guitar accompaniment. This simplicity contributes to its timeless appeal.

4. UNESCO Recognition: In 2011, "Silent Night" was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition acknowledges the song's cultural significance and enduring popularity.

5. Multilingual: "Silent Night" has been translated into hundreds of languages, making it one of the most widely performed and recorded Christmas carols in the world. Each translation seeks to capture the song's original message of peace and serenity.

6. 200th Anniversary Celebrations: In 2018, the world celebrated the 200th anniversary of the composition of "Silent Night." Special events and performances took place in Austria and around the globe to mark this milestone.

7. Historic Manuscript: The original manuscript of "Stille Nacht" written by Franz Xaver Gruber still exists and is considered a valuable historical artifact. It is displayed at the Carolinum Museum in Steyr, Austria.

8. Influence on Christmas Traditions: "Silent Night" has played a significant role in shaping modern Christmas traditions. It conveys the message of peace, love, and the birth of Jesus Christ, making it an essential part of the Christmas season for many people worldwide.

9. Recorded by Various Artists: Over the years, numerous artists and musicians from various genres have recorded their versions of "Silent Night." It has been interpreted by pop stars, classical musicians, and even rock bands, demonstrating its universal appeal.

10. Year-Round Popularity: While "Silent Night" is closely associated with the Christmas season, its message of peace and tranquility has led to its use in non-holiday contexts and year-round performances.

"Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht" is a timeless Christmas classic that continues to resonate with people around the world, reminding us of the spirit of the holiday season and the beauty of simplicity in music.