Calixa Lavallée

Calixa Lavallée, born on December twenty-eighth, eighteen forty-two, was a distinguished Canadian musician whose contributions to music have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Canada. His early life in the Province of Canada set the stage for a remarkable career as a composer, pianist, conductor, musicologist, and songwriter.

Lavallée is perhaps best known for his composition of the music for 'O Canada', a piece that would eventually be recognized as the national anthem of Canada in nineteen eighty. This significant honor came after a vote in both the Senate and the House of Commons, solidifying Lavallée's legacy in the annals of Canadian history.

Throughout his life, Lavallée also served as a musician in the Union Army during the American Civil War, showcasing his dedication to music even in times of conflict. While the English lyrics of 'O Canada' underwent changes in nineteen eighty and again in twenty eighteen, the original French lyrics and the music have remained unchanged since eighteen eighty, a testament to Lavallée's enduring influence.