December 28 - Calixa Lavalée (The Musical Birthday Series, 2nd Annual Cycle)

Calixa Lavallée (28 December 1842 – 21 January 1891) was a French-Canadian-American musician and Union Army band musician during the American Civil War who composed "O Canada."

 [For last year's verse on Roger Sessions and Earl Hines click here.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Both Sides Now

The National Anthem Act established set lyrics for "O Canada" in Canada's two official languages, English and French. -- Wikipedia

Under the federal Holidays Act, Canada Day is observed on July 1… -- Wikipedia

“O Canada,” by Lavallée

Is sung by those up north

To celebrate the nation’s day

(July the First, not Fourth).

Canadians, who like to sing

With sturdy voice and lungs,

Must even learn to sing the thing

In both official tongues.

 

 

 

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