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Franz Xaver Gruber is best known for composing the music for the famous Christmas carol "Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht" (commonly known as "Silent Night"). Here are some interesting facts about Franz Xaver Gruber and the carol:

1. Collaboration: Gruber didn't originally write both the music and lyrics for "Silent Night." The lyrics were written by Joseph Mohr, a priest, in 1816. Gruber composed the music to accompany Mohr's lyrics in 1818.

2. Christmas Eve Premiere: "Silent Night" was first performed on Christmas Eve in 1818 at the St. Nicholas Church in Oberndorf, Austria. Gruber, who was a schoolteacher and the church's organist, played the guitar while Mohr sang the carol.

3. Simple Accompaniment: One of the unique aspects of "Silent Night" is its simplicity. Gruber composed the music for guitar because the church's organ was out of commission. This simplicity contributes to the carol's universal appeal and ease of performance.

4. International Fame: "Silent Night" quickly gained popularity and was translated into various languages, becoming one of the most beloved and widely performed Christmas carols worldwide.

5. UNESCO Recognition: In 2011, "Silent Night" was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its cultural significance and enduring popularity.

6. Adaptations: Over the years, "Silent Night" has been adapted and covered by countless artists and musicians, including famous singers like Bing Crosby and Elvis Presley, making it one of the most recorded songs in history.

7. Gruber's Legacy: Franz Xaver Gruber continued to work as a teacher and organist throughout his life. He composed other music as well, but none achieved the same level of fame as "Silent Night."

8. Museum and Memorial: In Oberndorf, Austria, there is a museum dedicated to Franz Xaver Gruber and "Silent Night." The Silent Night Museum and Memorial Chapel celebrate the history of the carol and its creators.

9. Bicentennial 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 commemorate this milestone.

10. Cultural Icon: "Silent Night" has transcended its original religious context to become a symbol of peace and goodwill, making it an enduring part of Christmas traditions worldwide.

Franz Xaver Gruber's composition of "Silent Night" has left an indelible mark on the world of music and the celebration of Christmas, and it continues to be cherished by people of all backgrounds and cultures.