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Calixa Lavallée was a Canadian composer, conductor, and pianist, best known for composing the music for "O Canada," the national anthem of Canada. Here are some interesting facts about him and the anthem:

1. Composition of O Canada:

   • Calixa Lavallée composed the music for "O Canada" in 1880, with the lyrics written by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier. The anthem was originally commissioned for the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day ceremony.

2. International Recognition:

   • "O Canada" gained international recognition and became Canada's national anthem in 1980, a hundred years after its composition. It was officially adopted by the Canadian Parliament.

3. Versatility of Lavallée:

   • Lavallée was a versatile musician, skilled in playing various instruments such as the piano, violin, and flute. He also had a successful career as a conductor.

4. Patriotic Contributions:

   • Lavallée was passionate about his Canadian heritage and contributed to patriotic music. Apart from "O Canada," he composed several other works celebrating Canadian identity.

5. Educational Initiatives:

   • In addition to his musical contributions, Lavallée played a role in the development of music education in Canada. He established the National College of Music in Toronto, contributing to the training of many musicians.

6. Notable Works:

   • Apart from "O Canada," Lavallée composed various other pieces, including operettas, piano compositions, and patriotic songs. His compositions reflected a blend of European and North American musical influences.

7. Legacy:

   • Calixa Lavallée's legacy lives on through his significant contributions to Canadian music and culture. "O Canada" remains a symbol of national pride and identity for Canadians.

These facts highlight the significance of Calixa Lavallée and his enduring contribution to Canadian musical heritage through the composition of "O Canada."