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Calixa Lavallée was a Canadian musician and composer best known for composing the music for "O Canada," which later became Canada's national anthem. Here are some interesting facts about Calixa Lavallée and "O Canada":

1. 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 early musical training from his father.

2. A Multitalented Musician: Lavallée was a versatile musician who excelled as a pianist, composer, conductor, and teacher. He was known for his skills as a performer and composer, which contributed to his success in the music world.

3. "O Canada" Composition: Lavallée composed the music for "O Canada" in 1880, setting to music the lyrics written by poet Adolphe-Basile Routhier. The song was initially intended for a patriotic poem competition.

4. Premiered at the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day: "O Canada" was first performed on June 24, 1880, during a Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day celebration in Quebec City. It quickly gained popularity in French-speaking Canada.

5. English Translation: The English lyrics for "O Canada" were written by Robert Stanley Weir in 1908. This version gradually gained acceptance and, over time, became the official English lyrics for the national anthem.

6. Canada's National Anthem: "O Canada" became Canada's national anthem on July 1, 1980, officially replacing "God Save the Queen." It has since been an important symbol of Canadian identity and pride.

7. Lavallée's Other Works: While "O Canada" is his most famous composition, Lavallée also wrote other pieces of music, including operettas, songs, and instrumental music. However, none achieved the same level of recognition as the national anthem.

8. International Influence: Calixa Lavallée spent much of his career in the United States, where he became a respected musician and conductor. He was known for his efforts to promote Canadian music and culture on the international stage.

9. Death: Lavallée died on January 21, 1891, at the young age of 48, in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. He did not live to see "O Canada" become the national anthem of Canada.

10. Legacy: Calixa Lavallée's contribution to Canadian culture and identity through "O Canada" is celebrated to this day. His name and legacy are closely associated with Canada's national anthem, a song that unites Canadians from coast to coast.

Calixa Lavallée's composition, "O Canada," continues to be a source of pride and patriotism for Canadians and a symbol of their rich cultural heritage.